non doctoral dissertation

50 Best Doctorate Degrees Online No Dissertation Required [2024 Doctoral Programs]

Skip your dissertation with an accredited no dissertation doctoral program!

In the past, the majority of doctoral programs always required students to write a dissertation.  Now, instead of spending years working on a dissertation, a growing number of universities offer doctoral students an alternative to the dissertation process: a capstone project.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Universities Offering No Dissertation Online Doctorate Degree Programs

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

These programs can work around your existing obligations such as family or work commitments, and will allow you to advance in your career and contribute to your field in ways that don’t require a massive research paper and the massive amount of dissertation research that goes along with it!

List of Doctorate Degrees without Dissertation Requirements

Here is a list of doctoral programs that don’t require a dissertation. Instead, you complete a capstone project or a doctoral study project.

Click on your desired field of study to jump to that section:

• Business A dministration
• Co mputers & Information Technology

Criminal Justice

Healthcare administration, homeland security, public administration, public health.

Like dissertations, capstone projects are a culmination of your education. They usually involve some original research or some type of applied practical knowledge in your field. It all depends on the school and program.

Be sure to check out the specializations available, as well as the particular requirements for each of these non dissertation PhD programs to be sure you select the one that will best suit you and help you achieve your goals.

The Doctor of Business Administration offers specializations in accounting and focuses on domestic and international managerial accounting.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , financial managers are in high demand with a mean salary of $134,180.

In addition, the need for financial managers in leadership positions is growing by 17% over the next ten years. And if you’re interested in academia, the need for business educators is growing at the rate of 6% over the next ten years.

Business Administration

A Doctor of Business Administration is the highest academic degree program in the business world and is ideal for business professionals in corporations, the public sector, or academia.

Quite a few Online DBA concentrations are available without involving the dissertation process and associated research. Instead, you complete a capstone project or doctoral study project. These projects provide real-world learning and leadership opportunities.

An online DBA program focuses on advanced decision-making and leadership skills, integrating business theory and applied research. The capstone project or doctoral study project will relate to the specialization you have chosen and prepare you for that particular career path.

Most online DBA programs allow you to tailor your education by selecting the specialization that best suits your interests and aspirations.

Below are a few common DBA concentrations available without a dissertation.

• Entrepreneurship
• General Business
• Healthcare Management
• Human Resource Management
• Information Systems Management
• International Business
• Project Management
• Supply Chain Management

Whether you work full time as a business consultant or manager, as an entrepreneur, as a school administrator or in government, programs like this may help you take your education – and your career in business – to the next level.

Computers & Information Technology

A doctoral degree in computer information systems or information technology trains you for senior management roles in corporations, government agencies, and non-profits.

The Doctor of Information Technology and the Doctor of Business Administration are applied doctorate degree programs.

These online doctorate programs can prepare you for top-level positions such as IT strategist, IS manager, chief information officer, or even college faculty member.

Earning your doctorate in criminal justice gives you the tools needed to analyze and operate in the social sciences in areas such as law and society, crime, policing, homeland security, and criminal behavior.

Criminal Justice programs are often offered as follows:

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Criminal Justice
• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Criminal Justice
• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Criminal Justice
• Doctor of Management (DM) in Criminal Justice
• Doctor of Criminal Justice (DCJ)

Of these five degree program types, the PhD in Criminal Justice is the most common. However, the other four types of doctorates are professional doctorates and are more likely to require a capstone project instead of a dissertation.

Having an advanced level degree in education can really set you apart and open new doors. That’s where Doctor of Education programs come into play.

More and more universities are now offering online doctoral programs in education without dissertation requirements, which means you may be able to complete the program sooner, without neglecting your other obligations, and without writing that massive research paper!

Unlike a PhD in Education which is heavily focused on research, a Doctor of Education (EdD) program is more focused on the real world practical application of knowledge.

With the creation of the Carnegie Project for the Education Doctorate (CPED) which looks at EdD curriculum and its development, an increasing number of universities are adopting a more practical approach in their curriculum.

For this reason, Doctor of Education programs are starting to offer capstone projects (or similar applications) as an alternative to the lengthy, research-intensive dissertation process.

There are two main education doctorate options: a Ph.D. in Education and Doctor of Education (EdD). So which is the best choice?

A Ph.D. in Education is ideal for someone interested in academic and/or research positions in higher education, or in a corporate, military or government position, but typically requires a traditional dissertation.

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) programs, however, focus more on developments in the field and prepare you to work in a classroom or for a school district. Quite a few schools now offer online Ed.D. programs without dissertation requirements.

The University of Southern Mississippi, for example, offers a part-time, fully online EdD program that culminates in a capstone project in educational administration instead of a traditional dissertation process.

Be sure to select one of the doctorate degree without dissertation  programs that will work with your lifestyle and commitments, and help you achieve your long-term career goals.

The Doctor of Business Administration offers specializations in finance and focuses on international finance, entrepreneurial finance, law, and compliance.

In addition, the need for financial managers is growing by 17% over the next ten years. And if you’re interested in academia, the need for business educators is growing at the rate of 6% over the next ten years.

The Doctor of Business Administration with a specialization in Healthcare Management provides advanced training in organizational leadership, professional management, and human resource development.

DBA in Healthcare Management degree programs will prepare you for senior-level leadership positions in the healthcare field.

Explore cutting-edge strategies in leadership and decision-making while gaining a deep understanding of both theory and practice.

With the global increase in terrorism and natural disasters, the need for homeland security leaders well-trained in crisis planning is on the rise.

The Doctor of Business Administration with a specialization in Homeland Security addresses global terrorism, risk analysis, policy challenges, organizational leadership, and emerging trends.

Courses include an in-depth look into homeland security policies, homeland security business planning, and business infrastructure vulnerability analysis, among others.

A Doctor of Business Administration with a focus in management is designed to prepare you for strategic leadership. Not only will you develop advanced research skills, but you will also have the opportunity to learn new ways to address complex problems within your industry.

A Doctor of Business Administration is a professional doctorate that can help prepare you for high-level management positions in corporations, non-profits, or government agencies.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for management professionals is $109,760, which is the highest wage  of all major occupation groups.

Instead of following a traditional dissertation process in your studies, you will complete a DNP practicum.

Nurses participating in the DNP program will learn to take evidence-based research and put it into practice to improve patient outcomes.

This DNP can be completed in as little as two years:

• Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Leadership and innovation are also areas of focus to help encourage innovation and positive change in the healthcare system.

The Doctor of Public Administration is an applied doctorate that gives you the in-depth knowledge you need to lead effectively and help create positive change in non-profits, government agencies, or similar organizations.

Doctor of Public Administration degree programs can help prepare you for a career in academia or to work in the public, private, or non-profit sectors.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows high-demand in the field. For example, the need for social and community service managers will grow by 15% in the next ten years.

The Doctor of Public Health is a professional doctorate degree intended for individuals already working in the field of public health.

The field is interdisciplinary and covers topics ranging from advocacy and marketing to communications and leadership.

A number of concentrations are available such as epidemiology and biostatistics. Career options vary but can include health officer, health policy advisor, and community health director.

The Doctor of Psychology is a professional degree program that covers both Clinical Psychology and Counseling Psychology.

There are a few online PsyD programs that require no dissertation .

Some common fields of specialization include:

• Behavioral Health Leadership
• Behavioral Psychology
• Child, Adolescent and Family Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Couple or Family Therapy
• Forensic Psychology
• Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine
• Mental Illness
• Neuropsychology

Instead of a dissertation, some PsyD programs (like Capella) allow you to complete a capstone project related to your field of specialization.

What is a Doctoral Dissertation?

A doctoral dissertation, the culmination of most doctoral degree programs, is a substantial written document in which the student uses the teachings and skills gleaned from the entire program to develop and discuss an original concept, theory or practice that will help advance the field.

Writing a dissertation is no easy feat! They are typically hundreds of pages long, and students work on them for over a year, reviewing research, conducting experiments and analyzing data.

Because this project is daunting, demanding, and often requires years of research, many universities have come up with alternatives that allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and provide worthwhile contributions to their field without completing a traditional dissertation.

What Are All But Dissertation Completion Programs?

“All But Dissertation” (ABD) completion programs, also known as PhD completion programs, are designed to help students who have completed all the requirements of a doctoral degree program except the dissertation.

Quite often, students work diligently through the coursework of their doctoral program, but fall short when it comes to completing the required dissertation. According to the Council of Graduate Schools , only about 56% of those who start a doctoral degree program earn their doctorate or PhD within 10 years. Completing a dissertation is an enormous project that entails extensive research — and life, family, careers and other obligations sometimes get in the way.

For example, the Dissertation Completion Pathway (DCP) offered by National University is one example of a structured program that transfers credit for prior academic coursework and provides guidance and mentorship as you work to finish your dissertation. This type of program typically takes 2-3 years.

Is a Dissertation Required for a PhD?

Not always. In the past a dissertation was required for a PhD, but a growing number of institutions have started to offer online doctoral programs no dissertation.

Instead, students may complete a capstone project to demonstrate their knowledge and provide new contributions to the field. This may be a combination of a research paper and fieldwork, or perhaps you might do some consulting work at a functioning business. However, it most cases, it will require considerably less independent research than what is required for a dissertation.

Capstone projects vary from school to school, and program to program.

One of the benefits of non-dissertation doctorate degrees is that you can finish in less time. Check out our guide on accelerated online doctoral programs for a deeper look.

Is Financial Aid Available for Online PhD Programs?

Looking to manage the costs of an online PhD program? You’ve got options.

First up, the FAFSA – it’s not just for undergrads and can open doors to federal grants and loans. Don’t overlook state financial aid either; many states offer loan programs that might be more budget-friendly than private loans, helping to reduce the cost of repayment.

Also, keep an eye out for scholarships and grants tailored for online doctoral students. These can take into account your academic achievements and work experience.

Many universities now offer affordable online programs, designed to provide quality education without the hefty price tag of traditional on-campus degrees.  For more specific details and info about reducing these costs, the financial aid office at your university is a great resource. They can guide you through the maze of options and help you find the best fit for your financial situation.

Federal Financial Aid

First, you should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) , just like you did when you were an undergraduate student. This will open the door to federal grants and loans, as well as many other resources.

State Financial Aid

In addition to federal financial aid, almost 40 states offer student loan programs. Like Federal loans, the interest rates offered by most state programs are generally less than those charged by private student loan lenders. You can get more info on individual State Financial Aid programs here.

Scholarships and Grants for Online Doctorate Programs

Additionally, online PhD and doctoral students are often eligible for grants, fellowships, and scholarships. These may be available through the school, large corporations, or professional associations that take your work experience into account.

You can generally also get more info from the financial aid office at the university or college you choose to learn more about institutional funding and financial aid opportunities.

Can You Get a No Dissertation Doctorate Online?

Yes! A growing number of reputable, accredited colleges and universities offer non-dissertation doctorate programs. We’ve compiled a list of universities offering online doctorate degrees without dissertation requirements in the next section.

Are There Any PhD Programs Without Dissertation Requirements?

Yes, there are quite a few doctoral programs without dissertation requirements, but PhD programs without dissertation requirements are few and far between. In these cases, instead of the dissertation most commonly used in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program, a capstone project is required to help you put your new-found skills to good use.

In the past, dissertations were required so that you could demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in your field. But universities have started to realize that there are quite a few ways you can do that.

As you can see with the online DBA programs , a few colleges are no longer requiring dissertations. They allow you to complete a doctoral capstone project instead. No, it’s not technically a dissertation. But you do prove that you have acquired a high level of expertise in your field of study.

Higher education is continuing to change at a rapid pace. As another example, a number of PhD programs without GRE requirements are appearing.

How Many Credits Do PhD Programs Require?

Most PhD programs require between 54 and 90 credit hours. That’s between 18 and 30 courses. This is true for both campus-based PhD programs and online PhD programs.

Let’s look at one of National University’s online programs as an example. The online DBA in Accounting is 54 credit hours and consists of 18 courses (most courses are 3 credit hours).

In contrast, if you attend a state university campus program like the University of Illinois, the PhD in Business requires 64 credit hours (around 21 courses), provided you already have your master’s degree.

Are There Any EdD Programs Without Dissertation Requirements?

Yes, there are a number of EdD programs without dissertation research papers. Here is a list of Ed.D. concentrations / specializations without a dissertation requirement: Online Doctor of Education list .

Do All Doctoral Programs Require a Dissertation?

No. A wide-range of doctoral programs do not have a dissertation. Instead, graduate schools allow you to complete a capstone project which focuses on solving a real-world problem.

You can also earn your doctorate through an accredited online program if you don’t want to attend on campus.

Is a PhD Program Without a Dissertation Respected?

A dissertation allows students the opportunity to demonstrate expertise in their field of study through extensive research and an associated dissertation research paper.

In certain fields, a dissertation will be the measure of quality. This is true for academia should you ever want to be a tenured professor at Harvard. But if that’s not your goal, doctoral programs in higher education, leadership, or business administration are reputable – provided you earn your doctorate from a graduate school with regional accreditation.

Can I Get an Online Doctorate Degree Without a Dissertation?

Yes. There are dozens of online doctorate degrees with no dissertation being offered from accredited universities. The most common doctoral degree programs are the Doctor of Education, Doctor of Business Administration, Doctor of Psychology, and the Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Are There Any 18 Month Doctorate with No Dissertation Programs?

Yes. Some online PhD no dissertation programs can be completed in as little as 18 to 24 months.

To finish in a short time like this, you will need to be enrolled full time and progressing through your doctorate program courses successfully. You will also need your capstone project to be approved in a timely manner. Again, in order to complete your doctorate in less than 18 months, you’ll need to enroll in a PhD without thesis or dissertation requirement.

Are There Any PhD Without Dissertation Programs Online?

Yes, a number of universities offer online doctoral degree programs without dissertation to help working professionals juggle full time jobs with their studies. We’ve compiled a list of them above. As more universities offer no dissertation doctorates, we will update the list.

It’s worth noting that while these programs do not require traditional dissertations, there will usually be a research project (usually known as a Capstone) through which you demonstrate what you have learned. Each program should detail the capstone experience requirements and the opportunities you will have while enrolled.

A growing number of universities allow you to complete your program as a full time, working professional from the comfort of your own home!

Take College Quiz

www.bestcolleges.com 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.

Best Online Doctorate Degree No Dissertation Programs

Editor & Writer

Turn Your Dreams Into Reality

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

Have you always wanted to get a Ph.D., but the thought of writing a whole dang book makes your stomach turn? Forget about it. We've discovered 15 quality online doctorates that don't require a dissertation .

Our collection of no-dissertation doctorates spans subjects and industries, so there is something here for everyone — whatever your career goals might be.

Featured Online Doctorate Degrees

Enroll in your favorite program today; folks will call you “Doctor” before you know it.

What Doctorate Degrees Do Not Have Dissertation Requirements?

Degree programs in professional fields often focus on practical skills and real-world experience over strictly academic research . But that doesn't mean a no-dissertation degree program is for slouches.

They still include rigorous coursework, field experience, exams, and other assessments (like capstone projects or research papers) to ensure students become true experts in their fields.

Check out these 15 doctoral programs:

• Business Administration
• Business Management
• Computers and Information Technology
• Criminal Justice and Legal
• Education and Teaching
• Healthcare Administration
• Liberal Arts and Humanities
• Nursing and Healthcare
• Public Administration
• Public Health
• Science and Engineering

1. Accounting Degrees

Learn about accounting, auditing, taxation, and business law in an online accounting program . Many accounting doctorates culminate in a capstone project, which may include working directly with a client.

An accounting doctorate opens the door for in-demand finance careers like financial manager, budget analyst, and tax examiner.

Featured Online Accounting Doctorate Program

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that finance occupations will grow by 7% from 2021-2031. The median wage for finance occupations was $76,570 per year in May 2021.

2. Doctorate in Business Administration Degrees

An online doctorate in business administration (DBA) is a smart move for anyone aiming for an executive position in corporate management. A DBA's focus is organizational and tactical: Common specializations include finance, marketing, and management. You'll likely complete an internship and a capstone project in your chosen specialization.

Featured Online Business Administration Doctorate Program

There's a lot of money to be made with a DBA. Finance managers , for example, made a median annual salary of $131,710 in May 2021 (BLS).

3. Doctorate in Business Management Degrees

A doctorate in business management focuses on leadership and strategy. You'll learn to analyze market trends, find growth opportunities, and develop a long-term vision for your company.

Capstone projects typically include a real-world problem that requires the practical application of high-level business management concepts. Graduates often become executives, management consultants, and entrepreneurs.

Featured Online Business Management Doctorate Program

The median wage for management occupations was $102,450 in May 2021 (BLS) This was the highest of all major occupation groups. The BLS reports that marketing managers made a median of $133,380 in the same year.

4. Doctorate in Computers and Information Technology

A doctorate in computers and information technology program (DCIT) focuses on advanced computer and information technology topics. Examples include data structures, algorithms, and artificial intelligence. Other topics you'll study are machine learning and cybersecurity.

Even non-dissertation DCIT degrees require a major research project. Graduates can work in academia, research, and high-level industry roles.

Featured Online Computers & Information Technology Doctorate Program

People with a DCIT can apply for some of the highest-paying jobs. In May 2021, computer and information systems managers earned a median annual salary of $159,010 (BLS).

5. Online Doctoral in Criminal Justice and Legal Degrees

A doctorate in criminal justice prepares you for leadership roles in law enforcement, policy, the government, or the private sector. You'll study public policy, criminal justice, and behavioral psychology. Other study topics include research methods and statistics.

Instead of a dissertation, you may need to complete a research paper, portfolio, case study, or exam.

Featured Online Criminal Justice and Legal Doctorate Program

Doctoral graduates may become professors, police chiefs, public policy directors, or forensic scientists. The median annual salary for police and detective supervisors in May 2021 was $99,330 (BLS).

6. Online Doctorate in Education and Teaching Degrees

Earn a doctorate in education or educational leadership to compete for advanced leadership roles in education. You can become a principal, superintendent, dean, or university department chair.

These rigorous programs cover topics like educational leadership, psychology, and research methods. They also cover curriculum design and education policy.

Featured Online Education and Teaching Doctorate Program

In May 2021, university administrators made a median salary of $96,910 per year (BLS), and secondary school principals made a median annual salary of $98,420 (BLS).

7. Online Doctorate in Finance Degrees

In a doctorate in finance program, you'll master topics like advanced finance theory, international and corporate finance, and econometrics. The curriculum will also cover global markets, value creation management, and investment analysis. You can apply this rigorous training to top executive roles, like chief financial officer (CFO).

Featured Online Finance Doctorate Program

Advanced finance expertise can lead to high-paying jobs. According to the BLS, CFOs in manufacturing or technical services earned over $208,000 per year as of May 2021.

8. Online Healthcare Administration Doctorate Degrees

An online doctoral degree in healthcare administration prepares you for top administrative roles in healthcare . You'll learn to set policies, ensure legal compliance, and manage budgets. The degree will also prepare you to improve outcomes and make strategic organizational decisions.

A non-dissertation capstone project may require you to design and implement real-life solutions for a local healthcare organization.

Featured Online Healthcare Administration Doctorate Program

With this degree, you'll qualify for high-level positions like hospital CEO, CFO, or medical and health services manager . The latter role earned a median annual salary of $101,340 in May 2021, as per the BLS.

9. Online Doctorate in Liberal Arts and Humanities

If you just really love learning and teaching, a doctorate in liberal arts and humanities might be a good fit for you. There are several online English, history, art, theology, and philosophy programs to choose from.

Advanced liberal arts graduates often pursue academic careers, though your robust research and critical thinking skills will serve you well in any industry.

Featured Online Liberal Arts Doctorate Program

Outside of academia, liberal arts doctorate-holders can find rewarding careers in just about every field, as journalists and writers, marketers and managers, analysts, and administrators.

10. Online Management Doctorate Degrees

A doctor of management degree (DM) expands your research, analysis, and leadership skills. You'll learn to respond strategically to complex organizational challenges and opportunities. A DM can help you secure leadership positions in the education, industry, and government sectors.

Graduates can secure executive and C-suite roles like director of operations and chief operating officer.

Featured Online Management Doctorate Program

According to the BLS, the median pay for management occupations was $102,450 in May 2021. Chief executives earned even more: a median annual salary of $179,520 in the same year (BLS).

11. Online Doctorate in Nursing Practice and Healthcare (DNP)

A DNP is a clinically focused doctorate for nurses who want to continue working with patients as advanced practice registered nurses or who want to qualify for senior leadership roles.

As demand for highly skilled healthcare providers continues to rise, DNP graduates will likely find themselves in a strong position in the job market.

Featured Online Nursing Practice and Healthcare Doctorate Program

DNP graduates who specialized as nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, or nurse practitioners earned a median annual salary of $123,780 in May 2021 (BLS).

12. Online Doctorate of Public Administration

An online doctorate of public administration prepares you to create and shape policy for organizations and industries. You'll study organizational structures, management and governance, ethics, and social justice. Coursework will also cover different program and policy evaluation methods.

You can then pursue public policy roles like nonprofit executive director, city manager, policy analyst, or government affairs officer.

Featured Online Public Administration Doctorate Program

In May 2021, the median annual pay for social and community service managers was $74,000 (BLS). Top executives in the social assistance sector made a median of $154,650 in the same year.

13. Online Public Health Doctorate Degrees

Get an online doctorate in public health if you want the expertise needed to protect and advance your community's health. You'll study subjects such as environmental health, biostatistics, and epidemiology. Other topics include health policy and behavioral science.

You can use this knowledge to qualify for various research, policy, and practice positions in public health.

Featured Online Public Health Doctorate Program

Common careers for doctors of public health include biostatistician, professor, health and safety engineer, and epidemiologist. According to the BLS, health and safety engineers earned a median annual salary of $99,040 in May 2021.

14. Online Doctorate in Psychology

A doctorate in psychology opens the door to niche clinical positions that offer high pay, more responsibility, and more opportunities to make a meaningful impact on your clients and community.

In an online program, you'll explore practice ethics, research methods, and human development before focusing on a specialization.

Featured Online Psychology Doctorate Program

Your advanced degree can help you become a clinical psychologist, professor, or industrial psychologist. The BLS reports that industrial psychologists earned a median salary of $105,310 per year in May 2021.

15. Online Doctorate in Science and Engineering

A Ph.D. in science and engineering can help STEM professionals land high-expertise roles in research and development, academia, the government, and industry.

Specialized doctoral programs like chemical engineering or industrial engineering may require a capstone project or technical report. During these projects, you'll investigate an engineering-related problem and propose innovative solutions.

Featured Online Science and Engineering Doctorate Program

Graduates secure cool jobs as research scientists, engineering managers, professors, and product development engineers. In May 2021, engineering managers made a median yearly salary of $152,350 (BLS).

Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorate Programs With No Dissertation

Can you get a ph.d. without a dissertation.

You sure can. Several Ph.D. programs (especially those with practical business applications) accept a capstone project, research paper, or exams instead of a dissertation.

Are doctoral programs without a dissertation available online?

Yes, many doctoral programs without a dissertation requirement are available online, providing more flexibility and cost savings.

Are online Ph.D. programs eligible for financial aid?

Of course! Prospective online Ph.D. students can qualify for financial aid , including public and private loans, grants, scholarships, and reduced tuition.

Explore More College Resources

Best doctorate programs.

Best Online Curriculum and Instruction Doctoral Programs

Online Ph.D. Programs and Doctorates

BestColleges.com 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.

Compare Your School Options

View the most relevant schools for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to finding your college home.

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

Best 18-Month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs

A PhD  helps you advance your career and secure senior leadership positions. However, if you’re a busy working professional struggling to manage your family, work, and personal commitments, full-time enrollment with dissertation requirements might not be an option. Most PhDs take 3-7 years to complete, with lots of time spent on dissertations.

But what if you could study a PhD without dissertation requirements or lengthy durations?

Sure, online PhD programs  offer more flexibility; however, you’ll still spend years studying.

Luckily, many schools offer 18-month doctorate without dissertation programs that you can complete in record time, often while studying online on your own schedule. Does that mean you can find the easiest PhD without dissertation requirements? Let’s find out.

Here are some of the top universities and no-dissertation PhD programs you can finish in just 18 months or a little more.

Table of Contents

Top 18-month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs

We’ve separated our list of doctorate degrees without dissertation into a few categories: education, nursing, physical therapy, and business management.

Walden University

PhD in Education (P-20 Education)

Walden University is known for offering research doctorates to African-American students and has many flexible options in various disciplines to extend education to everyone. This flexible PhD without dissertation requirements is a fabulous education program where you can design your study based on your interests.

• Courses:  Leading the future of education, governance & politics of education, and learning experiences in supportive environments.
• Credits:  86
• Delivery:  Online
• Tuition: $692 per quarter hour
• Financial aid:  Grants, education assistance, and loans.
• Acceptance rate:  100%
• Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Nebraska Methodist College

Online Doctorate in Education & Leadership in Healthcare

Nebraska Methodist College is one of the country’s most famous allied healthcare colleges and offers more than 40 healthcare and education programs online and on-campus. You don’t need to complete a dissertation or submit GRE scores to apply for this doctoral degree online; no dissertation. You can also balance your studies with other parts of your life by choosing between part-time or full-time options.

• Courses: Information technology in healthcare & education, legal & ethical issues in organizations, and healthcare policy.
• Duration: 24 months
• Cost per credit hour : $817
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans.
• Acceptance rate:  92%
• Location:  Omaha, Nebraska

Nova Southeastern University, College of Education & School of Criminal Justice

EdD – Educational Leadership

Nova Southeastern University is a nationally renowned private institution that embraces social mobility and diversity. The institution offers an EdD that doesn’t require a dissertation. Instead, you’ll need to complete a Strategic Research Project (SRP) amounting to 12 credits.

• Courses: Leadership, communication, & technology, legal & ethical issues in educational leadership, and leading an educational organization.
• Credits:  55
• Delivery:  On-campus
• Tuition : $1,505 per credit
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, employer assistance, and veteran benefits.
• Acceptance rate:  76%
• Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Maryville University

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

Maryville University is renowned for innovative and comprehensive education, using advanced technology to deliver distance learning programs across a range of disciplines. If you are a working nursing professional, this doctoral degree without dissertation requirements will qualify you to reach the highest levels of nursing leadership.

• Courses:  Principles of epidemiology & biostatistics, ethics for advanced nursing practice, and professional role development.
• Credits:  33
• Duration:  20 months
• Delivery: Online
• Tuition : $813 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and employer assistance.
• Acceptance rate: 95%
• Location:  St. Louis, Missouri

Monmouth University

Online DNP Program

Monmouth University has a low student-faculty ratio and believes in immersive learning experiences beyond the classroom. This DNP doctoral program without dissertation requirements helps students analyze evidence to improve clinical policies and practices.

• Courses: Translating evidence to clinical practice, organizational leadership in healthcare, and health care economics and financial management.
• Credits:  36
• Tuition :  $1,348 per credit hour
• Acceptance rate: 79%
• Location:  West Long Branch, New Jersey

Bay Path University

Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse

Bay Path University is a non-profit institution that offers a range of opportunities for lifelong learning, especially for women. This DNP program seeks to prepare nursing professionals with modern evidence-based knowledge to handle advanced nursing practitioner roles, especially in the family health sphere. You can complete this online doctorate (no dissertation) at your own pace.

• Courses:  Managing healthcare delivery systems, healthcare informatics, and biostatistics & epidemiology.
• Tuition : $995 per credit
• Financial aid: Federal loans and private loans.
• Acceptance rate: 78%
• Location:  Longmeadow, Massachusetts

Physical Therapy

The university of north carolina at chapel hill, school of medicine.

Transitional Doctorate in Physical Therapy

The University of North Carolina is ranked #5  for research among public universities and has two Nobel laureates. This non-thesis PhD helps licensed physical therapists gain advanced knowledge and skills in their area of practice. Additionally, physical therapists earn a median salary of $91,010, making this program one of the highest-paid PhDs . Balance familial and work responsibilities easily as you complete this doctorate degree online (no dissertation).

• Courses: Advanced patient management, advanced neuromuscular intervention, and advanced practice issues.
• Credits: 27
• Tuition :  $902 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, loans, and employee benefits.
• Acceptance rate: 25%
• Location: North Carolina, Chapel Hill

Gannon University

Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate

Gannon University is a private Christian institution with a low student-faculty ratio that offers various online programs. This is one of few occupational therapy doctorate degrees without dissertations that help physical therapy professionals translate knowledge from cross-disciplinary theories and research into practice, enabling them to grow beyond a therapist-clinician role.

• Courses:  Applied research in clinical practice, advanced leadership & ethics, and entrepreneurship for the IT professional.
• Credits:  34
• Duration:  2 years
• Tuition :  $770 per credit
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, grants, loans, and veteran benefits.
• Acceptance rate:  79%
• Location:  Erie, Pennsylvania

Business Management

Capella university.

Doctor of Business Administration in Strategy & Innovation

Capella University is a private institution that strives to extend education to all by offering programs that fit with busy routines. As a result, many of its programs are highly flexible, allowing you to finish at your own pace. The institution also makes it easy to manage study costs by only requiring payment for 12 weeks instead of per credit. This doctorate without dissertation offers two streams: the GuidedPath, where you have a pre-fixed curriculum structure, and FlexPath, where you can modify the structure and complete the program according to your pace and convenience.

• Courses:  Effective organizational leadership, strategic decision making, and teaching business in higher education.
• Credits:  45
• Tuition : $545 – $810
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, loans, and military benefits.
• Location:  Minneapolis, Minnesota

Liberty University

Online Doctor of Business Administration

Liberty University has been named one of the top 5  online universities and is known for its quality, accessibility, and affordability. This flexible DBA program allows you to specialize in one of a range of business areas, from international business to healthcare management. No dissertation is required for this doctorate degree online.

• Courses:  Strategic allocation of financial resources, marketing for competitive advantage, and quantitative research methods.
• Credits:  60
• Tuition:  $595 per credit
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, grants, loans, and military benefits.
• Acceptance rate: 50%
• Location: Lynchburg, Virginia

What Is a Dissertation and How Does it Work?

A dissertation, sometimes called a thesis, involves conducting research before writing a final report to summarize the research’s findings. It is a fundamental requirement of many graduate programs, especially doctorates, and allows students to develop advanced research, writing, and analytical skills. If a panel approves your dissertation, it will become a part of the field’s current body of knowledge.

The student may choose the topic independently or in consultation with an advisor. In some cases, students can collaborate with faculty members to conduct research. Once complete, the university evaluates the dissertation, and their assessment often decides whether the candidate achieves their PhD .

Why Do So Many Programs Require Dissertations?

A dissertation is usually the most involved and longest-running assignment you need to complete as part of a graduate program. Many schools include a dissertation in the program to develop and test students’ research abilities and set them up for careers in academia.

However, some universities offer graduate programs that don’t require a dissertation. Instead, these programs involve additional research-oriented courses for the students to make up their credits.

Ranking Methodology for 18-month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs

We put together the above list of universities and doctorate programs across various disciplines based on their requirements for a dissertation and the total duration of the program. Of course, we gave preference to 18-month programs, but we also included some slightly longer programs.

Most programs don’t require any dissertation at all, while some require fair research activity for satisfactory completion. We ranked the programs based on accessibility, delivery mode, courses, faculty, and school reputation.

Key Takeaways

While most doctorate programs include a mandatory dissertation, several universities now offer no-dissertation programs. These are ideal for working students who may not be able to attend full-time, on-campus programs involving extensive research that can take years to complete.

But you might wonder whether an 18-month doctorate without dissertation status is still valuable. The good news is that it is — a doctorate without a dissertation is nonetheless a respected advanced degree that can significantly boost your career and secure well-paid, senior positions in the field of your choice.

Looking for other ways to speed up your post-graduate education?

Explore the Best 1-Year PhD Online Programs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get a doctorate without doing a dissertation.

Yes. Many universities offer doctorate programs that don’t require a dissertation at all. Review the ones we’ve listed in this article for more information.

What Is a Doctorate Without a Dissertation Called?

There’s no particular term for doctorates without dissertations. Instead, they’re simply known as PhDs, EdDs, DNPs, or doctorate degrees. However, some institutions call them “no-dissertation programs” on their official websites.

Is a Dissertation Required for a PhD?

At many universities, a dissertation is an important and indispensable part of a PhD curriculum. However, some universities offer doctorate programs that don’t require a dissertation or thesis for completion. This can be a good option if you’re uninterested in research, don’t wish to work in academia, or are looking for an accelerated option.

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/ 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]
• Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ 25 Best Gifts for Law Students for 2024

Top 6 Best Academic Planners for 2024/2024

7 ways to ensure you get an interview, related posts.

• 73% of job seekers believe a degree is needed for a well-paying role–but is it?

Tech Talent Crunch: Cities with More Jobs Than Workers

The Most Under-Rated Career Advancement Tip for 2024

Top 5 Best Psychology PhD Programs in 2024

Good News For Early Careers: Skills-Based Hiring is Surging

These Are The Best States To Start Your Tech Career

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Posts

• Is a Master’s Degree Worth It? [2024 Guide]
• Graduate Certificate vs Degree: What’s the Difference? [2024 Guide]
• ACBSP Vs AACSB: Which Business Program Accreditations is Better?
• What is a Good GRE Score?

© 2024 TheGradCafe.com All rights reserved

• Partner With Us
• Results Search
• Submit Your Results
• Write For Us

EdDPrograms.org

Online Ed.D. Programs Without a Dissertation

Last updated on January 23rd, 2024 at 09:57 am

Online Ed.D. programs—and in-person doctorates—always contain a rigorous, research-based project. In the past, this has been a traditional dissertation, just like a Ph.D. program. But in recent years, more and more schools are choosing to focus on a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) or Capstone Project . Discover how these two "No Dissertation" models differ from the older framework. Or skip ahead to the online listings and on-campus listings to explore your options!

No matter what Ed.D. you choose, you are always going to have to complete a research-based doctoral project. Schools that advertise “No Dissertation” Ed.D. programs typically require a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) or capstone project . These are the doctorates that we’ve included in our online listings . Examples include:

• University of Missouri-St. Louis’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Practice . UMSL employs an 8-credit Dissertation in Practice (DiP) model, which is completed through group work.
• University of Southern California’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership . This program involves a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) that focuses on issues impeding K-12 students’ access to learning opportunities.
• University of Southern Mississippi’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Administration . This degree includes a 12-credit capstone research project, which runs the length of the program. Students are expected to focus on a problem of practice in their workplace.
• Nebraska Methodist College’s Online Ed.D. in Education and Leadership in Healthcare . This “No Dissertation” degree contains an 8-credit capstone split into four courses over a six-term program.
• National University’s Online Ed.D. in Organizational Innovation , which requires a culminating project, worth 9 quarter credits. This is a written work based on research students do in their workplace.

Note: Avoid like the plague any Ed.D. program that has no DiP or capstone requirement! They almost certainly will a) not be accredited; and b) not be recognized by employers.

What is a Traditional Ed.D. Dissertation?

A traditional Ed.D. dissertation is a five-chapter paper, roughly the length of a short book. It shows that you can conduct original research into the field of education. The dissertation process starts as soon as you begin your online Ed.D. or on-campus doctorate and it can be broken down into six steps:

• Choose a Research Topic: Near the beginning of the Ed.D. program, you’ll be expected to identify a topic that will require substantial research. This topic should revolve around a unique issue in education (e.g. Helping Intellectually Gifted Middle School Students, Bridging the Gap Between Training and Educating in Adult Learning, etc.).
• Craft a Proposal: You’ll use the knowledge you’ve gained from didactic coursework and Ed.D. research classes to write the opening chapters of your dissertation, including an introduction that defines your chosen problem, a literature review, and a proposed methodology for finding the answer.
• Defend the Proposal: Before proceeding, you will need to present your dissertation proposal to a committee. The committee will want to see that your research is significant and relevant works are included in the literature review. In online Ed.D. programs, this defense can usually be done virtually.
• Research the Topic: After making any necessary tweaks to the proposal, and getting it approved, you can begin researching your topic.
• Write the Remainder of the Dissertation: Once you have completed your research, you’ll write up the final chapters—one chapter will detail your findings; the other should contain an analysis of what your findings mean and how they might apply to professional situations.
• Defend Your Dissertation: At the end of the Ed.D. degree, you must present your dissertation to the committee (usually in an oral presentation). After you have incorporated any notes from the committee, you can finalize your draft and graduate.

Note: Several universities publish full Ed.D. dissertations online, among them George Fox and the University of San Francisco .

Practice-Focused Alternatives: The “No Dissertation” Model of the DiP or Capstone Project

Unlike Ph.D. programs, Ed.D. programs are focused on professional practice—on-campus and online Ed.D. graduates are expected to apply their research in order to solve or improve real-world problems. To that end, many universities in our online listings and on-campus listings have been moving away from a traditional dissertation to more innovative models.

What does an Ed.D. Without a Dissertation Entail?

In general, all alternatives to a traditional Ed.D. dissertation involve a Problem of Practice (PoP) in the workplace. When you tackle a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) or capstone project , you’ll be using your research to create practical & workable solutions (e.g. recommending better practices or creating different approaches to current practice).

As we mentioned, you’ll sometimes see these kinds of education doctorates labeled as “No Dissertation” degrees. But keep in mind that the final project will be just as challenging as a traditional dissertation! Be prepared for a lot of on-the-ground research and writing.

Dissertation in Practice (DiP)

In the 2000s, the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) wanted to make the Ed.D. more relevant for school practitioners and education leaders. So it devised a new Framework for Ed.D. Program Design , with a) a new definition of the Ed.D.; b) a list of guiding principles for program development; and c) a set of building blocks for the degree.

One of these building blocks is the Dissertation in Practice (DiP) . During a DiP, you’ll be expected to:

• Tackle a complex Problem of Practice (PoP) facing an organization or stakeholder group in education.
• Create an innovative, research-based project that can help guide other educators and be used in the field.
• Integrate concepts of practice, leadership, and equity into your project.

DiPs are geared toward working professionals who want to make substantive changes in education. Experienced practitioners act as DiP advisors; collaboration is encouraged; and applied research & theory is the name of the game. Examples of this practical approach include ASU’s focus on “action research” within the workplace; Pitt’s use of “improvement science” to address equity and justice; and Harvard’s concern with “strategy in action.”

Capstone Project

While you’re examining universities, you may also come across Ed.D. programs that contain a culminating project , scholarly delivery , applied inquiry project , or a capstone project . The choice of language is determined by graduate faculty and the university. But all of them hold the equivalent weight of a traditional dissertation or DiP.

To get a sense of how an on-campus or online Ed.D. capstone project is structured, we recommend you examine the Ed.D. program page carefully.

• Some schools like to put an emphasis on group work.
• Others are interested in seeing innovative final projects/deliverables.
• Many follow the DiP model.

An education doctorate with a capstone project is probably the closest you’re going to get to a “No Dissertation Ed.D.” You’ll often be in involved in more collaboration and hands-on deliverables. But you’re always going to have to produce rigorous, research-focused results.

Note: CPED posts examples of award-winning Ed.D. Dissertations in Practice in its Resource Center and UW Tacoma maintains a database of Dissertations in Practice/Capstone Projects .

How an Ed.D. Capstone Project Works

Let’s say you’ve decided on pursuing an accredited, on-campus or online Ed.D. without a dissertation. How can you be sure that the final research project is going to be as tough as the traditional model? Here is a general summary of the steps involved in completing a strong Ed.D. capstone project:

• Choose a Capstone Topic: The beginning of your Ed.D. will typically be front-loaded with foundational coursework, as well as classes on how to conduct research. It’s here that you’ll start to explore what a good capstone topic might be and learn about relevant research tools.
• Meet with an Advisor: You’ll work with an advisor to firm up the real-world problem you want to address and determine how to approach it. Part of this process will involve figuring out what an appropriate deliverable would be (e.g. change management plan, new curriculum, portfolio of educational materials, etc.).
• Draft a Proposal: About halfway through the program, you may be expected to draft a report that contains a problem statement, an outline of your process for finding solutions, and a description of deliverables.
• Defend the Proposal: Before any actual research takes place, the committee needs to sign off on your proposal.
• Research the Topic: Even without a standard Ed.D. dissertation, there’s no getting around conducting research. The key difference is how that research is gathered and applied. You may end up combining traditional research with action research and/or evaluation research (e.g. collecting and analyzing real-time data from your workplace).
• Defend Your Findings: You have one more defense—this time of your research findings and accompanying recommendations. This is separate from the project deliverable.
• Produce a Deliverable: The deliverable/final project is something that an organization can actually use to improve educational access or outcomes.

Ed.D. Traditional Dissertation vs. DiP/Capstone Project

As long as they contain a DiP or capstone, accredited on-campus & online Ed.D. programs without a dissertation carry the same weight as doctoral programs with traditional dissertations. There’s absolutely no difference in quality. The CPED consortium includes numerous prominent universities , and U.S. News & World Report highly ranks several schools with Ed.D. capstone components. So you have a choice.

Traditional Ed.D. Dissertation

You may wish to consider Ed.D. programs with a traditional dissertation if you want to dig deep into original research. This research may not be immediately applicable to your workplace, but it will help advance educators’ understanding of an issue. It contributes new knowledge to the field. Some dissertation writers like to investigate cultural topics (e.g. Latinx learning experiences); others are interested in the effect of education in particular settings (e.g. U.S. prison system).

Ed.D. Capstone Project or DiP: The “No Dissertation” Model

If you would like to tackle a specific problem in your workplace, then we recommend you consider in-person or online Ed.D. programs with a DiP or capstone project. These doctorates are focused on applied theory & research—you will be expected to test & implement changes over the course of your degree (e.g. new education methods, curriculum changes, leadership interventions, etc.). Ed.D. programs without a dissertation may also contain more group work and interpersonal opportunities.

Note: If you don’t have the capacity for a large research project at this time, you could consider pursuing an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree . This leaves the door open for you to complete an Ed.D. completion program or All But Dissertation (ABD) program later down the track.

All Online No-Dissertation EdD Programs

48 Schools Found

Arizona State University

Teacher's College

Tempe, Arizona

EdD in Leadership and Innovation

• Curriculum Info
• How To Apply

EdD in Leadership and Innovation - Higher Education Change Leadership

Edd in leadership and innovation - pk-12 change leadership, edd in leadership and innovation - systems, professional and reimagined change leadership, online edd in leadership and innovation.

Offered Online

Online EdD in Leadership and Innovation - Higher Education Change Leadership

Online edd in leadership and innovation - pk-12 change leadership, online edd in leadership and innovation - systems, professional and reimagined change leadership, university of arizona.

Department of Educational Policy Studies and Practice

Tucson, Arizona

EdD in Educational Leadership

National university.

Sanford College of Education

La Jolla, California

Online Ed.D. in Organizational Innovation

University of southern california.

Rossier School of Education

Los Angeles, California

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Doctor of education in educational leadership - educational psychology, doctor of education in educational leadership - higher education administration, doctor of education in educational leadership - teacher education in multicultural societies, global executive doctor of education, online doctor of education in educational leadership - k-12 leadership in urban school settings, online doctor of education in educational leadership - leading instructional change, connecticut, sacred heart university.

Isabelle Farrington College Of Education

Fairfield, Connecticut

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership

Wilmington university.

College of Education

New Castle, Delaware

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership - District Leadership

Doctor of education in educational leadership - school leadership, doctor of education in educational leadership - teacher leadership, doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation, doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation - strategic leadership, doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation - talent development, doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation - workplace learning, edd in higher education leadership and innovation, online doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation, online edd in higher education leadership and innovation, district of columbia, american university.

School of Education

Washington, District of Columbia

Online EdD in Education Policy and Leadership

Nova southeastern university.

Fischler College of Education

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

EdD in Curriculum and Instruction

Edd in higher education leadership, edd in higher services administration, edd in instructional technology and distance education, edd in organizational leadership, edd in reading education, edd in special education, online edd in curriculum and instruction, online edd in educational leadership, online edd in higher education leadership, online edd in higher services administration, online edd in instructional technology and distance education, online edd in organizational leadership, online edd in reading education, online edd in special education, university of florida.

Gainesville, Florida

Online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction - Teachers, Schools, and Society

University of miami.

Coral Gables, Florida

Doctor of Education in Applied Learning Sciences

Georgia southern university.

Statesboro, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Curriculum Studies - Cultural Curriculum Studies

Doctor of education in curriculum studies - learning, development, and curriculum, doctor of education in curriculum studies - multicultural and social justice education, doctor of education in educational leadership - p-12 administration, governors state university.

University Park, Illinois

Online Doctor of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership - Higher Education Administration

Online doctor of education in interdisciplinary leadership - not for profit/social entrepreneurship leadership, online doctor of education in interdisciplinary leadership - superintendent p-12, national louis university.

National College of Education/School of Business and Management

Chicago, Illinois

Doctorate of Education in Higher Education Leadership

Online doctorate of education in higher education leadership, allen college.

School of Health Sciences

Waterloo, Iowa

Doctor of Education in Health Professions Education

University of saint mary.

Education Department

Leavenworth, Kansas

Doctor of Education in Leadership - Innovation in Curriculum and Instruction

Doctor of education in leadership - innovative leadership in higher education, johns hopkins university.

Baltimore, Maryland

Online EdD in Instructional Design in Online Teaching and Learning

Massachusetts, bay path university.

Longmeadow, Massachusetts

EdD in Higher Education Leadership & Organizational Studies

Boston college.

Lynch School of Education

Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts

Executive Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education

Executive doctor of education (ed.d.) in higher education - catholic education, boston university.

Wheelock College of Education & Human Development

Boston, Massachusetts

EdD in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies: Leadership in Early Childhood Education-Grade 12

Northeastern university.

College of Professional Studies

Doctor of Education

Online doctor of education - curriculum, teaching, learning and leadership, online doctor of education - higher education administration, online doctor of education - organizational leadership studies, regis college.

School of Arts and Sciences

Weston, Massachusetts

Andrews University

Department of Leadership

Berrien Springs, Michigan

Online Doctor of Leadership (D.Lead)

Cornerstone university.

Adult & Graduate Studies

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Development

Capella university.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

EdD in Adult Education

Edd in performance improvement leadership, edd in reading and literacy, edd, curriculum and instruction, the college of saint scholastica.

Duluth, Minnesota

Doctor of Educational Leadership

Walden university.

Riley College of Education & Leadership

Online Doctor of Education - Community College Leadership

Online doctor of education - curriculum instruction and assessment, online doctor of education - early childhood education, online doctor of education - educational administration and leadership (for administrators), online doctor of education - educational administration and leadership (non-licensure), online doctor of education - educational technology, online doctor of education - higher education (self-designed), online doctor of education - higher education and adult learning, online doctor of education - higher education leadership and management, online doctor of education - p-20 education (self-designed), online doctor of education - reading, literacy, and assessment, online doctor of education - special education, mississippi, university of southern mississippi.

Department of Educational Research and Administration

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Online EdD in Educational Administration - P-12

Online edd in higher education administration, a. t. still university of health sciences.

College of Graduate Health Studies

Kirksville, Missouri

Doctor of Education in Health Professions

Nebraska methodist college of nursing & allied health.

Healthcare Management Department

Omaha, Nebraska

EdD in Education & Leadership in Healthcare

University of nebraska-lincoln.

Department of Educational Administration

Lincoln, Nebraska

Doctor of Education in Educational Studies - Innovative Learning Technologies

Doctor of education in educational studies - teaching, curriculum and learning, fordham university.

Department of Educational Leadership

Bronx, New York

Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership, Administration and Policy

Online doctorate of education in educational leadership, administration and policy, franklin university.

Columbus, Ohio

Online Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership - Higher Education Leadership

Online doctor of education in organizational leadership - organizational leadership focus, online doctor of education in organizational leadership - pk-12 educational leadership, kent state university at kent.

School of Foundations, Leadership and Administration

Ed.D. in Interprofessional Leadership - Athletic Training

Ed.d. in interprofessional leadership - cultural foundations, ed.d. in interprofessional leadership - curriculum & instruction, ed.d. in interprofessional leadership - educational technology, ed.d. in interprofessional leadership - special education, university of dayton.

School of Education and Health Sciences

Dayton, Ohio

Doctor of Education in Leadership for Organizations

South carolina, university of south carolina-columbia.

Columbia, South Carolina

Online Doctor of Education in Educational Practice and Innovation - Education Systems Improvement

Online doctor of education in educational practice and innovation - stem education, online ed.d. in educational practice and innovation with a concentration in curriculum studies, online ed.d. in educational practice and innovation with a concentration in learning design and technologies, east tennessee state university.

Johnson City, Tennessee

Doctorate of Education in Global Sport Leadership

Lipscomb university.

Nashville, Tennessee

Doctorate in Education - Learning Organizations and Strategic Change

Online doctor of education in learning organizations and strategic change, vanderbilt university.

Department of Leadership, Policy, and Organizations

EdD in Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Edd in k-12 educational leadership and policy, online edd in leadership and learning organizations, tarleton state university.

Department of Educational Leadership & Technology

Stephenville, Texas

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership - EC-12 Education Leadership

Ed.d. in educational leadership - higher education leadership, ed.d. in educational leadership - superintendent or principal certification, texas a & m university-college station.

Department of Educational Administration and Human Resource Development

College Station, Texas

Doctor of Education in Educational Administration

Online doctor of education in curriculum and instruction, texas tech university.

Lubbock, Texas

Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Online doctor of education in higher education administration - community college administration, online doctor of education in higher education administration - higher education college/university administration, west texas a & m university.

College of Education and Social Science

Canyon, Texas

Online Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership

Online doctorate of education in leadership in higher education, college of william and mary.

Department of Educational Policy, Planning and Leadership

Williamsburg, Virginia

EdD in Educational Policy, Planning and Leadership - International School Leadership

Edd in educational policy, planning and leadership - gifted education, edd in educational policy, planning and leadership - higher education administration, edd in educational policy, planning and leadership - k-12 administration, liberty university.

Lynchburg, Virginia

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership

Online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - elementary education, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - middle grades education, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - secondary education, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - special education, online doctor of education in school administration and supervision, university of virginia.

Curry School of Education

Charlottesville, Virginia

EdD in Administration and Supervision

Edd in higher education, virginia commonwealth university.

Richmond, Virginia

Doctor of Education in Leadership

Doctor of education in leadership - general leadership, doctor of education in leadership - higher education leadership, online doctor of education in leadership, online doctor of education in leadership - general leadership, online doctor of education in leadership - higher education leadership, gonzaga university.

Spokane, Washington

Doctor of Educational Leadership - Educational Leadership Among Indigenous Peoples

Doctor of educational leadership - leadership in catholic schools, doctor of educational leadership - pre-k-12 school leadership, university of wyoming.

Laramie, Wyoming

Online Ed.D. in Education - Higher Education Administration

Online edd in learning, design and technology, all on-campus no-dissertation edd programs.

25 Schools Found

California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, California

Doctorate in Education - Community College Leadership

Doctorate in education - pk-12, la sierra university.

Department of Administration and Leadership

Riverside, California

Doctor of Education in Administration and Leadership

Doctor of education in curriculum and instruction, doctor of education in curriculum and instruction - educational psychology, doctor of education in curriculum and instruction - higher education, doctor of education in curriculum and instruction - leadership and administration, doctor of education in curriculum and instruction - neuroscience and education, doctor of education in educational psychology, doctor of education in educational psychology - mental health, doctor of education in school psychology, doctor of education in school psychology - bcba, university of colorado denver/anschutz medical campus.

School of Education and Human Development

Denver, Colorado

Doctorate in Education - Leadership for Educational Equity

Doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - early childhood education and early childhood special education, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - executive leadership, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - higher education, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - latin learners and community, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - mathematics education, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - professional learning and technology, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - science education, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - urban and diverse communities, university of connecticut.

Storrs, Connecticut

Delaware State University

Department of Education

Dover, Delaware

EdD in Educational Leadership in Higher Education

Edd in educational leadership in k-12, university of delaware.

Newark, Delaware

Barry University

Miami, Florida

Doctor of Education in Organizational Learning and Leadership - Higher Education Administration

Edd in organizational learning and leadership - educational leadership, edd in organizational learning and leadership - human resource development, florida state university.

Tallahassee, Florida

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Administration

Doctor of education in learning design & performance technology, lynn university.

Boca Raton, Florida

Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership

University of north florida.

Department of Leadership, School Counseling and Sport Management

Jacksonville, Florida

Augusta University

Augusta, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Educational Innovation - Curriculum and Instruction

Doctor of education in educational innovation - education leadership, doctor of education in educational innovation - elementary education, doctor of education in educational innovation - middle grades, doctor of education in educational innovation - p12 art education, doctor of education in educational innovation - p12 health & physical education, doctor of education in educational innovation - p12 music education, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - biology, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - chemistry, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - earth science, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - economics, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - english, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - french, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - german, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - history, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - mathematics, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - physics, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - political science, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - science education, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - spanish, doctor of education in educational innovation - special education, university of hawaii at manoa.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Education Doctorate in Professional Education Practice

Depaul university, edd in curriculum studies, illinois state university.

Normal, Illinois

EdD in Education Administration and Foundations: P-12 Administration

University of illinois at chicago, doctor of education in urban education leadership, drake university.

Des Moines, Iowa

Doctor of Education with Principal Licensure

Edd in administration with superintendent licensure, university of iowa.

Iowa City, Iowa

Doctor of Education in Education Policy and Leadership Studies - Higher Education

Doctor of education in education policy and leadership studies - pk-12 administration, morehead state university.

Morehead, Kentucky

Doctor of Education in Adult and Higher Education Leadership

Doctor of education in educational technology leadership, doctor of education in p-12 administrative leadership, northern kentucky university.

Department of Counseling, Social Work and Leadership

Highland Heights, Kentucky

Spalding University

Louisville, Kentucky

University of Louisville

Edd in educational leadership and organizational development, university of maryland-college park.

College Park, Maryland

Doctor of Education in School System Leadership

Michigan state university.

Department of Education Administration

East Lansing, Michigan

EdD in Educational Leadership - K12 Administration

University of mississippi.

University, Mississippi

EdD in K-12 Educational Leadership

Edd in math education, maryville university.

Saint Louis, Missouri

Saint Louis University-Main Campus

Doctor of education in educational leadership - catholic, university of missouri-st louis, edd in educational practice, new hampshire, southern new hampshire university.

Manchester, New Hampshire

Rutgers University

Graduate School of Education

Camden, New Jersey

EdD in Design of Learning Environments

Edd in education, culture, and society, edd in teacher leadership, cuny hunter college.

New York, New York

Doctor of Education in Instructional Leadership

New york university.

Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions

EdD in Educational Theatre in Colleges and Communities

Edd in higher education administration, the sage colleges.

Esteves School of Education

Troy, New York

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, New York

Doctorate in Education - Educational Administration

North carolina, east carolina university.

Greenville, North Carolina

EdD in Educational Leadership - Higher Education

Gardner-webb university.

Boiling Springs, North Carolina

Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership

Western carolina university.

Human Services Department

Cullowhee, North Carolina

Wingate University

Wingate, North Carolina

Doctor of Education in Higher Education Executive Leadership

Miami university-oxford.

Oxford, Ohio

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Doctor in education studies - educational administration, pennsylvania, kutztown university of pennsylvania.

Department of Secondary Education

Kutztown, Pennsylvania

Education Doctorate in Transformational Teaching and Learning

University of pittsburgh-pittsburgh campus.

Department of Administrative and Policy Studies

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

EdD in Health and Physical Activity

Edd in higher education management, edd in out of school learning, edd in social and comparative analysis in education, edd in special education - applied behavioral analysis, edd in special education - blindness/vision impairments/orientation and mobility, edd in special education - early intervention, edd in special education - emotional and behavioral disorders, edd in special education - learning disabilities, edd in special education - severe disabilities, edd in stem, clemson university.

Clemson, South Carolina

Doctorate in Education in Education Systems Improvement Science

Texas christian university.

Fort Worth, Texas

Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership

Brigham young university-provo.

McKay School of Education

Provo, Utah

University of Utah

Department of Educational Leadership and Policy

Salt Lake City, Utah

EdD in K12 Leadership and Policy - Administrative Licensure

K12 edd program, university of vermont.

College of Education and Social Services

Burlington, Vermont

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

Seattle university.

Seattle, Washington

Doctorate in Educational and Organizational Learning and Leadership

University of washington-tacoma campus.

Tacoma, Washington

Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership

Doctoral program in educational leadership - adult education, doctoral program in educational leadership - higher education, doctoral program in educational leadership - nursing education and healthcare leadership, doctoral program in educational leadership - p-12 educators/superintendent credential, doctoral program in educational leadership - public service, washington state university.

Pullman, Washington

EdD in Educational Leadership - Administration

Edd in educational leadership - higher education leadership, edd in educational leadership - teacher leadership.

Exams Know-how

Earning Your Do...

Earning Your Doctorate Without a Dissertation: Alternative Pathways to a PhD

What Is a Dissertation?

A dissertation is a lengthy and formal research document that is typically a requirement for the completion of a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D. or Doctor of Education (Ed.D.). It represents a significant scholarly project that demonstrates a student's ability to conduct independent research, contribute to the existing body of knowledge in their field, and make an original and substantial academic contribution.

Depending on the academic institution and subject of study, dissertations come in a variety of lengths and formats. Some master's programs may also include a thesis or dissertation as a final project, even though these types of projects are most frequently associated with doctorate degrees. However, these types of projects are generally shorter and less comprehensive than doctoral dissertations. Yocket is your go-to resource for information, insights, and support on non-dissertation doctoral programs.  

Read Also - What is Dissertation

How does a dissertation work?

Students are frequently required to conduct research for their dissertations. They may pick the subject. They decide on the dissertation's subject matter. This essay-length document is lengthier. It might include tens of thousands of words. The objective is to convey their research on a certain subject or issue. There are quite stringent guidelines for some programmes. Others let the pupils entirely decide what to talk about.

Dissertations need a significant amount of time to finish. They demand that students invest significant time in thorough research. They could influence whether a student earns a degree. They must thus be finished carefully and with great care.

Why Are Dissertations Required for So Many Programmes?

The majority of programmes need dissertations to be completed. They facilitate the sharing of knowledge by pupils. Many of them are research articles that offer various points of view. Some are designed to be more of a discussion that has a resolution. Making sure a student can finish an independent research report is an aim for many colleges. To some extent, these skills could be quite helpful. They serve as the last grade in several schools.

They require a lot of time to finish. The longest and most significant task that most students will complete is a dissertation. They can need months to plan and finish. A lot of pupils will get assistance from their lecturers. They could be perfect for people who are fervent about a subject. Others may find them to be among the most taxing kinds of tasks.

List of Doctorates that Do Not Require a Dissertation

Numerous Ph.D. programmes do not demand a typical dissertation as the final output. Instead, the dissertation requirement is frequently replaced with alternate research or academic initiatives in these programmes. Following are some instances of such doctorates:

• Business Administration
• Computers & Information Technology
• Criminal Justice
• Healthcare Administration
• Homeland Security
• Public Administration
• Public Health

The particular prerequisites for doctorate programmes might change significantly across institutions and even between different programmes at the same institution, which is an essential point to remember. In order to choose a programme that fits your academic and professional objectives, investigate and evaluate several options if you're thinking about earning a doctorate without the conventional dissertation. When selecting a PhD programme , accreditation and programme quality should also be carefully considered. Get personalized advice, program recommendations, and more on Yocket premium .

18-Month Doctorate Without Dissertation Online

There are certain online doctoral programmes meant to be finished in a shorter amount of time, such as 18 months, and may not require a traditional dissertation, although traditional PhD programmes normally contain a dissertation and take several years to complete. These programmes frequently provide a different final project. The following are a few instances of 18-month doctorate without dissertation online:

• Business Programs-  You can obtain a PhD in business in either accounting or management. Obtaining a Master's degree in business administration with a focus in either of these two disciplines is often the initial step.
• Education- It is also feasible to pursue your studies and acquire a PhD in education. However, there may be a distinction between the standards you must satisfy if you wish to receive an 18-month doctorate education programme without a dissertation.
• Engineering- It's also feasible to obtain a PhD in engineering without completing a dissertation. The degrees, which may also be known as Doctor of Science in Engineering degrees, are often given out by institutions with a strong focus on research.
• Law- Without doing further coursework connected to finishing a dissertation, law degrees are also accessible. The average length of time to earn a law degree is 18 months, and most institutions that offer these programmes normally require an internship or practicum before you can graduate.
• Liberal Arts- A doctorate in liberal arts without a dissertation is also offered; it takes 18 months to complete. Schools that want their students to learn more in-depth information about specific subjects of study may give the degree, which may go by the designation of Doctor of Philosophy in Arts and Sciences.
• Nursing- A doctoral programme in nursing can be completed via remote learning with or without the completion of a dissertation. Although some programmes can be finished in as little as 18 months, most students must still complete extra coursework and clinical training before receiving their diplomas.
• Science- Doctoral science programmes are typically offered by colleges and universities to entice young scientists to complete their education. While some of these programmes could be more focused on encouraging students to conduct research, others might be more concerned with preparing students for the workforce.

For people looking to acquire a PhD while adapting their particular circumstances and professional aspirations, earning a doctorate without the traditional dissertation is an increasingly practical and well-liked choice. We have examined a number of alternate routes that enable people to obtain the greatest degree of academic acknowledgment without the sometimes difficult dissertation procedure throughout this investigation. Explore non-dissertation doctoral programs and take the next step in your academic journey today with Yocket.

Frequently Asked Questions about Doctorate Without Dissertation

1. Can you get a doctorate without doing a dissertation?

A conventional dissertation is required for certain online doctorate programmes, but not all of them. This indicates that you can obtain your PhD without submitting a dissertation online.

2. What does PhD without dissertation mean?

With the exception of completing the dissertation (or thesis) and presenting it for final approval at the conclusion of a PhD programme, graduate students who have earned the informal title ABD have completed all programme requirements.

3. What is the quickest doctorate degree to get?

Online Doctoral Programmes for One Year: 1. Doctorate in Behavioral Health. 2. Doctorate Ethereal Degree in Grief Counseling. 3. Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy 4. Doctor of Nursing Practice. 5. Doctor of Occupational Therapy 6. Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision.

Articles you might like

Best Doctorate Degree Online No Dissertation

Renee Whitmore

Editor-in-Chief

Share this on:

Ready to start your journey?

In this article, we will be covering…

Some doctoral programs require you to be on-campus. Many other degree programs are entirely online. Others involve mostly online studies with a few campus visits.

And while some doctorate degrees online require a traditional dissertation, many other programs don’t. This means you can get your doctorate online and without a dissertation requirement.

What is Required Instead of a Dissertation?

Many online PhD programs include capstone projects (which are also known as a doctoral research project or a dissertation in practice) in lieu of traditional dissertations. A summative project like a capstone project or dissertation in practice puts your learning to the test. You solve real-world problems using the knowledge and skills you’ve gained during your studies.

To say that these are easy PhD programs might be a misnomer, but they are certainly the easiest PhD to get. A dissertation alone can take years to prepare for; without such a requirement, these online programs are easier and less time-consuming than many of your other options.

Why You Should Get a Doctorate

Getting an easy doctorate degree online is a great way to advance your career, build new skills, and acquire new knowledge. These doctoral programs are easier than on-campus, traditional dissertation-based doctorate degree programs. However, they still represent an academic challenge. These doctoral degrees without dissertation enable you to become a well-rounded student and more prepared for your chosen field of work.

Which Doctorate Should You Get?

Which online doctorate programs should you pursue? If you Google “the best doctorate degree online no dissertation,” you’ll get many results from various fields, including:

• nursing practice
• business administration
• public administration
• health care

But sifting through all those results for doctoral programs can be laborious and confusing. So, we’ll do it for you!

Below is a ranking of some of the easiest PhD programs online. These online doctoral programs represent some of the best options currently available. You can find an easy doctorate program online, no matter your area of interest. You can even find an 18 month doctorate without dissertation!

Many of these online doctoral programs allow transfer credits. You can shorten the time needed to complete the doctoral degree program by transferring credits. Likewise, many of the higher education programs listed below are quite affordable, so you can get the doctorate you want while also saving money.

Online Schools Report’s Methodology for Ranking the Best PhD Without Dissertation

The online doctorate programs listed below weren’t just randomly chosen from a Google search. Instead, each doctorate degree online meets a set of criteria that we use to determine the best options available for you. Our methodology includes several factors, including:

• online program criteria
• ancillary services
• school criteria

Let’s explore each doctoral degree online no dissertation in more detail.

Online Program Criteria

The largest component of our ranking methodology is program criteria. It is worth 50 percent of the total score.

When evaluating doctoral programs online with no traditional dissertation, we consider the following critical questions:

• Is the doctoral program 100 percent online? If not, how much of the program can be completed remotely? If campus visits are required, how long are those visits, and how frequent?
• What methods are used to deliver the program? Is it synchronous or asynchronous? Is the online experience intuitive and easy to use? Are there flexible due dates?
• Do the doctorate degree programs have good retention rates? What are the graduation rates like? How long does the program take? Is there an  18-month doctorate without dissertation option?

Using these and other program-related criteria, we can determine the value of an online doctoral program and rank it accordingly.

What Services are Provided?

Another important factor in determining the best online doctoral degree programs to list here is the ancillary services that the doctoral program offers.

For example, online doctoral programs with career services programs, job placement services, and tutoring are ranked higher than online programs that don’t.

Likewise, doctorate degree programs that offer “extras,” like internship placements or practicum placements in or near your hometown, get more points. These programs offer more value than those requiring you to do an internship at a location of their choosing.

Some doctoral programs even offer one-on-one learning. This benefits distance learners because you can work directly with a professor or mentors and discuss concepts you might need help mastering. It’s nice to have that one-on-one time with a professor to pick their brain, ask questions, and build rapport as well.

In other words, this component, which is worth 30 percent of the total score, is all about the flexibility a program offers.

Additionally, the services provided indicate the support you can expect during your learning experience.

School Criteria

The final 20 percent of our score for the easiest PhD degree programs is related to school criteria. This component relates to:

• Institutional accreditation
• The breadth and depth of the curriculum
• The school’s acceptance rates
• The experience level of the school’s professors

These are but a few examples. However, you can see how accredited schools with a high percentage of professors with a terminal degree would be ranked higher than a similar program that lacks both criteria.

Additional Criteria

Additionally, we narrowed our list down by selecting doctoral degree programs that meet the following criteria:.

• Positive reviews from students
• Offers a variety of online doctoral degree programs
• Offers some form of field experience, be that job shadowing, practicum, internship, or clinical experience.
• Offers an easy-to-use online learning portal

Additional Methodology Details

So, keep this methodology in mind as we explore some of the best doctoral degree online no dissertation. More details about this methodology are available here as well.

Note that these degree programs tick more of these boxes than most other online doctoral programs. This means they might provide you with a more well-rounded higher education.

Also note that the rankings below of the doctoral degree programs are in random order. Doing so allows you to determine which of these doctoral programs is a good fit without the distraction of numerical rankings to influence your choices.

Ranking the Best PhD Without Dissertation

Doctor of education in learning and organizational change, baylor university.

Baylor University offers this PhD program with a focus on educational leadership. The result is a Doctor of Education. This doctoral program aims to help doctoral students understand how to manage organizational change. This is done using the processes of teaching and learning.

Designed for education professionals, this is a top choice among online doctorate programs. It’s for teachers, administrators, and other educators who want a more prominent role in leading and managing school systems.

Likewise, this doctoral degree program prepares you to lead change-making in:

• government agencies
• businesses and corporations
• non-profit organizations

If you want online doctoral programs in education without dissertation, this is a great option.

Practitioner-Oriented

This is a practitioner-oriented doctoral degree program. This means you put what you learn about educational leadership into practice.

For example, you’ll take nine credits of learning foundations courses. There are 24 credits of organizational change courses. There are also nine credits of research methods courses. Then, you’ll put it all together at the end of your studies. Using the knowledge and skills you’ve gained about educational leadership, you’ll work on a Problem of Practice (PoP) and Capstone project.

The PoP experience challenges you to consider your professional experiences. You’ll explore what you’ve learned about educational leadership. You’ll consider how you can use your experience and learning to make measurable organizational change.

Program Features

• Weekly online courses provide you with guided learning opportunities and group discussions. Courses are delivered via video. You can interact with your professors and classmates in a real-time, face-to-face digital environment.
• On-campus immersion experiences are held twice during the program. These experiences give you and other doctoral students much-needed collaborative time to work on skill-building and knowledge-building about educational leadership.

Accreditations

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

Get more information about Baylor’s Online Doctor of Education Program in Learning and Organizational Change .

Doctor of nursing practice, bradley university.

Bradley University offers this online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). It’s a top option in terms of the easiest doctorate to get.

Bradley University has three different doctoral program tracks to make it more accessible for students.

This doctoral degree program is for nurses interested in family practice. You need a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) from a regionally accredited college or university to apply. Likewise, the BSN must be from a nursing program accredited by either:

This track is for nurses with a master of science in nursing (MSN) from an NLNAC, ACEN, or CCNE-accredited program. If you’re interested in learning the administrative part of healthcare and want to take on a leadership role within a healthcare organization, this is the track for you.

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

The psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner track is a great option if psychiatry interests you. You’ll learn therapeutic treatments, advanced nursing practice, and improve your psychological communication skills. You need a BSN from an NLNAC, ACEN, or CCNE-accredited program to apply.

Regardless of which track you choose, you’ll learn from outstanding faculty with years of real-world nursing practice experience.

The program also takes a student-centered approach. You have access to Bradley’s learning tools and resources. You also get individualized attention that helps make your online studies a success. The emphasis on student support, working collaboratively with other doctoral students and professors, and the flexibility of choosing your preceptors for fieldwork are further reasons why this is on our list of easy doctorate degrees.

The Higher Learning Commission  accredits Bradley University. It’s recognized  by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top regional universities in the midwest.

Additionally, this Doctor of Nursing Practice doctoral degree online (DNP program) is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education .

Get more information about Bradley’s Online Doctor of Nursing Practice .

Doctor of Criminal Justice

Northcentral University

Northcentral University offers this doctoral program. It’s likely to show up when searching for “what is the easiest doctorate degree?” There are many reasons for this.

First, the program is online. There is no residency requirement. There are no on-campus visits required.

Second, this online doctoral program doesn’t require GRE or GMAT scores. You can forgo those testing experiences, keep a little money in your pocket, and begin your studies faster. Of course, you must meet other admissions criteria (like already having a master’s degree). There’s no traditional dissertation process or dissertation in practice required, either!

Third, Northcentral University’s program is in a one-to-one format. You get individualized attention, guidance, and support to help you make your way through the program. This also means you can begin the program at virtually any time. You have the flexibility to start your studies when it works best for you.

Credits and Timeline

You’ll complete 18 courses worth 54 credit hours for this professional doctorate. You’ll need 45 months to meet these course requirements. This timeline might be reduced or expanded depending on your specific needs.

Coursework adapts to your interests as well. For example, this online PhD program offers specializations in:

• Organizational Leadership
• Homeland Security
• Public Administration

Whichever specialization you select, you’ll explore many different topics.

Sample Courses:

• Criminal justice
• Management and budgeting
• Civil and criminal liability
• Public safety

By completing doctorate degree programs like this, you set yourself up for career advancement in criminal justice.

For example, if you’re already a law enforcement officer, this degree could help you become a detective or criminal investigator. Likewise, if you work for a federal agency like the FBI, you could get a doctoral degree online and get a promotion to Special Agent in Charge. 

Other Possible Career Tracks:

• Intelligence Analyst
• Immigration and Customs Inspector
• First-Line Supervisor
• Compliance Manager
• Loss Prevention Manager
• Sheriff or Sheriff Deputy
• Police Detective

Northcentral University is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission .

Get more information about Northcentral University’s Doctor of Criminal Justice Online .

Doctor of business administration, walden university.

This Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree is offered entirely online by Walden University. It’s a top choice among online doctoral programs without dissertation.

One of the best features of this doctoral program is that there are many different options you can use to customize your learning experience.

Multiple Degree Tracks

For example, there are no less than 16 individual tracks from which you can choose, including:

• International Business
• Social Impact Marketing
• Global Supply Chain Management
• Energy Management

Of course, more traditional tracks like accounting, finance, marketing, and leadership are also available.

Capstone Project Possibilities

In addition to these specializations, you also get to choose among three capstone project options. These include:

• Traditional doctoral study

This allows you to pursue higher education in a manner that’s right for your interests and needs. A traditional doctoral study might be preferable for some doctoral students, particularly if they already have experience in research or higher education.

But for other students, a portfolio capstone project that reviews the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program might be preferable. Likewise, the consulting track allows you to get real-world experience working as a consultant, which you could then use to land a consulting job upon graduation.

Leadership Focus

In addition to focusing on specialized tracks and capstone projects, this program puts leadership and management skills front and center. You’ll learn how to think critically, become an excellent problem solver, and you’ll acquire the communication skills needed to be an effective leader in business administration.

Yet another factor that makes this a desirable program is that you can transfer up to 17 credits. So, if you’ve started your doctoral studies elsewhere, you might be able to move those credits to Walden and reduce the amount of time needed to finish your doctoral degree.

Upon enrolling in this program, you get access to many doctoral studies resources from Walden University. This includes access to a writing center that will help you develop your written communication skills.

Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission .

Get more information about Walden University’s Online Doctor of Business Administration .

Doctor of physical therapy, arcadia university.

If you wish to continue your higher education in physical therapy, Arcadia University’s online Doctor of Physical Therapy program is a good option.

This doctoral program is not entirely online. But, the bulk of it is remote. Over six semesters, you’ll complete 110 credit hours. This includes coursework in:

• Differential Diagnosis and Intervention
• Integrated Patient Management
• Management and Leadership Principles in a PT Settings
• Exposure to Physical Therapy in a Health Care System

There are immersion experiences and clinical rotations as well.

Immersion Experience Details

Immersion experiences bring the cohort together on campus. These experiences allow you to study alongside your classmates and learn from professors in a real-world environment. They also let you practice the skills you’ve learned while using therapy equipment in a lab setting.

Additionally, there are 32 weeks of clinical practice. During practice, you’ll put what you’ve learned to the test in various settings.

For example, you’ll work in different clinical situations, with different patients, and with different supervisors. This gives you a complete picture of what it’s like to work as a physical therapist. This arrangement also allows you to practice your skills. You’ll get feedback on your work from multiple supervisors.

On top of all these features and benefits, this program is one of the top-ranked physical therapy degree programs in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report.

This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Arcadia University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education as well.

Get more information about Arcadia University’s Online Doctor of Physical Therapy .

Doctor of education in curriculum and instruction, university of wyoming.

This program is from the University of Wyoming. The EdD program in Curriculum and Instruction is 100 percent online. As part of your studies in this Doctor of Education program, you’ll take various curriculum design and instructional practice courses. This might include:

• Learning and cognition
• Action research
• Curriculum development
• Diversity in education
• Educational leaders as communicators
• Educational leaders as change agents

What is an Applied Program?

Unlike many doctoral programs, this is an applied program. It’s also a PhD no dissertation option. So, rather than traditional PhD studies with a research-based dissertation process, this program includes problem-based research, curriculum design activities, and field experiences. These experiences give you practical experience in curriculum and instruction.

You’ll complete a dissertation in practice. A dissertation in practice involves working on a highly complex education-related problem. You must solve the problem using innovative, research-based solutions. You have the option of working with:

• public schools
• private schools
• community-based educational organizations

You can also worth with other learning facilities to complete the dissertation in practice.

In-Person Option

While this is a 100 percent online doctoral program (which uses blended delivery methods like video conferencing, audio conferencing, and web chats), you have the option of attending courses on campus in Laramie, Wyoming, if you so choose.

Faculty members for the online courses are the same as for online courses. Whether you study online or make your way to Laramie, you’ll get the same high-quality higher education.

Other features of this education doctorate no dissertation include:

• the availability of assistantships on campus
• the ability to pursue a minor in a different field
• the opportunity to participate in high-tech teaching at the University of Wyoming Shell 3-D Visualization Center

At the Shell 3-D Visualization Center, faculty members engage in designing immersive learning experiences for students.

The University of Wyoming is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission .

Get more information about the University of Wyoming’s Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction .

Doctor of leadership, andrews university.

Do you have a few years of work experience? Do you want to enhance your skills and abilities? The online Doctor of Leadership degree from Andrews University might be a good fit.

This is a project-focused doctoral program. There is no dissertation process or dissertation in practice requirement for this higher education leadership program.

Instead, you complete a final capstone project. A capstone project aims to meet competencies and use data to inform your decision-making process.

Hybrid Program

This is a hybrid program. Most work is remote. However, there is also a yearly visit required. The first visit is an orientation. Subsequent visits to campus are for an annual leadership conference. You’ll have roundtable discussions with your classmates and others in the leadership field during the conference.

One of the advantages of this program is that it’s short. There are 16 courses required for graduation. This is in addition to the doctoral project described above.

Andrews University works with you to build a learning program for your specific needs. You develop a plan of study that helps you meet your educational needs and achieve your career goals.

Other Features

• The ability to develop your own specialty
• Opportunities to learn from leaders from around the world
• A portfolio creation process with professional artifacts that are valuable when applying for jobs

This 54-credit program is shorter if you transfer applicable credits. This could make it one of the shortest doctoral programs on this list.

Andrews University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission .

Get more information about Andrews University’s Online Doctor of Leadership .

Doctor of public administration.

Northcentral University’s online Doctor of Public Administration degree is one of the best PhD degree programs for working adults. This doctoral degree is 100 percent online. It’s a one-on-one learning format.

In other words, you can begin your degree when it’s right for you. Then, you can pursue your studies based on your schedule. You can continue working in your full-time job without school getting in the way.

Like other easy doctorates from Northcentral, this program doesn’t have a residency requirement. There isn’t a dissertation process or a dissertation in practice. In fact, there is no group work required. Instead, you can work at your own pace to get a doctoral degree and advance your career.

Learning Outcomes

• Learning how to formulate solutions to public policy issues at home and abroad
• Developing an understanding of how to contribute to the field of research in public administration
• Evaluating ethical issues and other problems in public organizations
• Creating strategies for improving organizations through evidence-based research
• Developing an understanding of the values that drive public administration

Additionally, you’ll learn about administrative law, principles of organization, and public management theory. The learning experiences in this program are many. They prepare to take the next step in your career.

Prepare for a Future Career or More Education

These outcomes are applicable in many areas of public administration. You might use this degree to advance to a higher position in your current workplace. You might also use it to find new employment at the management or executive level of:

• corporations
• state agencies
• federal agencies
• non-profits

This doctoral program includes 18 courses. You can finish in less than four years – all while continuing to work in your current job.

As a fully online, accredited program, the Doctor of Public Administration degree is a good option if you want a way to advance your career on your own terms.

Northcentral University is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission . Accreditation is important to ensure that you’re getting the best possible education and that the learning outcomes are aligned with industry standards.

Get more information including scholarship and financial aid for Northcentral University’s Online Doctor of Public Administration .

Doctor of health administration, capella university.

Are you passionate about making positive changes in the healthcare system? The online doctoral program in healthcare administration from Capella University is worth a look!

This program includes multiple areas of specialty. You can tailor your learning to a specific area about which you are passionate.

General Health Administration

This is a good option if you want to become a health care leader. It has a focus on problem-solving and communication. Additional focuses are on collaboration and ethics.

Health Care Leadership

This track focuses on developing 21st-century leadership skills. You’ll also gain financial management skills and research skills. Together, this enables you to evaluate and interpret health care data.

Health Care Quality and Analytics

This option guides you in learning how to use analytics to improve patient outcomes. You’ll also learn how to increase the effectiveness of health care organizations and shape health care systems.

Health Policy and Advocacy

Studies in this track assist future health care professionals in developing skills needed to make organizational changes at the executive level that will positively impact patients’ lives.

A unique feature of this doctoral program is that it has an integrated capstone project and practicum experience.

Rather than completing a dissertation, you work with professors to solve a real-life health care organization problem in your capstone project. At the same time, you gain real-world experience by completing a practicum in a health care setting. Combined with a capstone project, this gives you excellent real-world experience before graduating.

If you’ve already begun doctoral studies in this field, you might be able to transfer up to 18 of those credits to apply towards this doctoral degree.

Capella University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission .

Get more information about Capella University’s Online Doctor of Health Administration .

Doctor of public health, university of south florida.

The Doctor of Public Health online program from the University of South Florida is broad-based. It focuses on advanced education and training in public health.

Specifically, this doctoral program concentrates on the leadership roles you’ll be qualified for after completing this program. This can lead to employment in a wide range of settings, including:

• Health departments
• Community-based health organizations
• Non-profit organizations
• International agencies

To prepare you for competent practice, you’ll explore many topics. You’ll take courses related to lab management, global health assessment, and biocomputing, among others.

Throughout your course of study, you’ll develop advanced expertise in evidence-informed public health practice.

This is a hybrid program. This means that most courses are remote. But there is also an on-campus learning requirement. This on-campus experience includes three institutes. They allow you to collaborate with classmates and learn together in a real-life campus environment.

By mixing in-person learning with online learning, you can get the bulk of your studies done from home. However, you can still reap the rewards that in-person learning offers to students.

Another flexible feature of this doctoral program is the chance to choose from two tracks. You can select the Advanced Practice Leadership in Public Health option or choose the Public Health and Clinical Laboratory Science and Practice option.

Either way, it’s a doctorate degree without dissertation. However, there is a doctoral project requirement that you complete in the field. This involves the delivery of three evidence-based outcomes as part of the project.

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

Get more information about the University of South Florida’s Online Doctor of Public Health .

Doctor of education in policy and leadership, american university.

This online EdD program from American University focuses on helping you develop the skills to be a leader and change-maker in the educational system.

In addition to allowing you to learn about educational theory, this doctoral program also emphasizes practice experience. The combination of the two enables you to lead the charge to change the American educational system for the better, and for all students.

Areas of Focus

You can use this doctoral degree to narrow your practical application of knowledge to one of many areas, including:.

• Policymaking
• Educational instruction
• Organizational leadership
• Strategic budgeting
• Talent management
• Collaborative inquiry

Additionally, you’ll take courses that help build skills related to:

• social justice
• systems change
• personal leadership
• educational research

This Doctor of Education program involves 40 credit hours of study. The coursework takes less than three years to complete. The bulk of the program is online. However, there are three required campus visits. There is one visit each in the first, fourth, and sixth terms of the program.

Like some of the other options on this list, this EdD program is cohort-based. This gives you the chance to build personal and professional relationships with your classmates over the course of the program. American University strives to create diverse cohorts that provide a rich learning environment.

Some of the courses are synchronous, meaning they are offered online and live at a certain time. Other courses are asynchronous and self-paced. This is a big bonus if you have work and family obligations. You can complete the self-paced courses as time allows. This makes this program a prime choice for an online doctorate no dissertation.

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

Get more information about American University’s Online Doctor of Education in Policy and Leadership .

Doctor of psychology, southern california university.

Southern California University’s Doctor of Psychology program is for students with a bachelor’s degree. Likewise, if you have a master’s degree in psychology or a related field, this is the program for you.

This program allows you to extend your studies. You can develop a higher level of skills related to clinical practice.

This 4-5 year program. Courses prepare you to meet the requirements for licensure as a clinical psychologist.

This program includes courses related to:

• Advanced theories of personality
• Ethical and professional issues
• Physiological psychology
• Psychopharmacology
• Psychological assessment

In addition to these required core courses, you’ll take various elective courses. These classes are in your areas of interest as part of this doctoral program. Possible courses include sports psychology, the psychology of learning, and brief therapy, just to name a few.

But this program isn’t just about classroom learning. Instead, you also have the opportunity to participate in supervised clinical experiences. These experiences enable you to apply what you’ve learned to real-world clinical settings.

Rather than completing a lengthy dissertation, this program culminates with a doctoral project. The project is a practical application of your knowledge and skills. So, unlike a PhD, which focuses on research, this Doctor of Psychology program is much more focused on applying your learning in a clinical setting.

• Understanding appropriate communication skills for working with a variety of clients
• Understanding how social and cultural institutions influence each clients’ worldview
• Understanding how to design evidence-based treatment plans
• Understanding how to design psychometric assessments that are solidly based in proper theory
• Understanding how to study advanced psychological concepts

This program is 66 credits. It takes most students about four or five years to complete. However, California Southern University allows up to 30 transfer credits to speed up the process.

Likewise, you can take more classes each semester to shorten the timeline. Having that kind of flexibility is extremely valuable for any student. This is especially so if you have work or family obligations.

In addition to offering this easy doctorate degree online, California Southern University is also fully accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission .

Get more information about California Southern University’s Online Doctor of Psychology .

Doctor of education in leadership for educational equity, university of colorado – denver.

This EdD program from the University of Colorado at Denver is cohort-based. You’ll study with the same group of students throughout the program.

You have additional flexibility because the program comes in a three-year or five-year format. It’s a great option if you currently work full-time.

This EdD program is specifically for people with experience as educators. The concentration of this program is on higher education.  You’ll gain the tools necessary to affect positive changes in higher education settings.

Rather than working on a traditional dissertation, this program requires you to complete a dissertation in practice. The goal of a dissertation in practice is to conduct research, problem-solve, and integrate principles of leadership and equity into this long-term assignment.

Topics of Study

• Leadership and equity
• Power and privilege
• Research methods
• Predictive analytics
• Finance and strategic resource allocation
• Strategic enrollment management
• Policy and governance / Law & ethics
• Organizational culture and performance

In addition to the 54 credit hours of online study, you must visit campus twice each year of the program. This equates to six or 10 campus visits, depending on which track you choose.

Admission to this program is much like the other online doctoral programs on this list. You must already have a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. You also need to submit a curriculum vitae or resume and three letters of recommendation. Also needed are official transcripts, two professional artifacts, and a statement of purpose.

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

Get more information about the University of Colorado at Denver’s Online Doctor of Education in Leadership for Educational Equity .

Doctor of business administration in financial management.

The PhD in Business Administration (PhD-BA)degree from Northcentral University concentrates on building skills related to financial management.

You’ll conduct research, analyze data, and learn how to manage financial resources. Likewise, your courses build knowledge to develop strategic financial planning measures. You’ll also learn how to maximize return on investment for your clients.

To do so, you’ll work closely with the faculty to explore topics such as:

• Financial statement analysis
• Investment selection techniques
• Risk management
• Financial business decision models

This program includes 20 courses worth 60 semester credit hours. It takes less than four years to complete this degree. Faculty with terminal degrees guide your studies.

Additionally, there are no scheduled class meeting times. There is no group work, and there are weekly course start dates.

This program has flexible due dates and the ability to schedule your courses around your work and life obligations. You can also work directly with your professors in a one-on-one format.

As a result of this, graduates of this program have the ability to:

• Evaluate business practices
• Defend business theories to diverse audiences
• Evaluate the interconnectedness of globalism and business decisions
• Develop a clear understanding of current business and finance theories
• Formulate solutions to critical business problems

You can also choose from a variety of related specializations.

PhD Specializations

You can choose from any of the following:

• Project Management
• Industrial-Organizational Psychology
• Homeland Security Leadership and Policy
• Health Services
• Advanced Accounting
• Global Business Management
• Information Technology
• Strategic Marketing

Get more information about Northcentral University’s Online PhD in Business Administration in Financial Management . 

The university of arizona – global campus.

The University of Arizona Global Campus’ online doctor of psychology program is flexible. You can complete your doctoral degree on your terms.

The program includes 10 core courses. There are seven specialization courses and a capstone project as well.

You must complete an Applied Doctoral Project. This is instead of a dissertation. The Applied Doctoral Project consists of two planning courses. There are also five units of applied coursework.

This online doctoral program is 62 credits. Those credits consist of courses that are mostly six to nine weeks in length. There are also several on-campus weekend residencies.

Degree Outcomes

• The ability to apply best practices when working with clients
• Exhibit culturally diverse standards when working with different groups, communities, and individuals from diverse backgrounds
• Develop a deep understanding of psychological theories, evidence-based methods, and appropriate research methods in psychology
• Exhibit leadership skills
• Possess the ability to critically evaluate applied psychological research methods

Additionally, this program offers three specialization areas. You may choose between Criminology and Justice Studies, Health and Wellness Psychology, and Sport and Performance Psychology. 

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

Get more information about the University of Arizona Global Campus’ Online Doctor of Psychology .

Doctor of social work, the university of tennessee- knoxville.

The doctor of social work program at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville is a specialized program that focuses on clinical practice and leadership.

Students who enroll in this program are typically working professionals in social work. The program helps advance your knowledge and skills to deliver improved services to your clients.

This is an intensive, accelerated program. It takes just three years to complete.

• An opportunity for advanced clinical practice rooted in evidence-based theory
• Synchronous and asynchronous courses
• Yearly on-campus sessions

As part of the online coursework and yearly on-campus sessions, you participate in activities to develop clinical leadership skills. You also gain applied research skills and advanced practice skills in social work.

Sample Courses

• Neuroscience
• Psychopathology
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
• Clinical Research
• Trauma-Focused Interventions

You must meet several criteria to gain admission. You must have a master’s degree in social work. The master’s degree must be from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Additionally, you must have at least three years of clinical practice experience beyond your clinical practice from your master’s program.

It’s important to note that this is a professional practice degree – a DSW rather than a PhD. The difference is that a professional practice degree prepares online doctoral students for clinical practice and leadership in social work. A PhD in social work focuses on research and contributing to the research knowledge base in social work.

The University of Tennessee is fully accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges .

Get more information about the University of Tennessee’s Online Doctor of Social Work .

Occupational therapy doctorate, quinnipiac university.

Are you already a registered occupational therapist? The occupational therapy doctorate from Quinnipiac University allows you to gain advanced knowledge and skills. You can use what you learn to deliver improved services to your clients. Likewise, you might find that career advancement is more straightforward with a doctorate.

This program allows you to bring your past experiences as an occupational therapist to the virtual classroom. You can blend those experiences with skills development, new professional knowledge, and opportunities to learn from other professionals.

You’ll find that this program offers good flexibility. Courses are in a single module format. Each course’s duration varies depending on the content.

Most coursework is online. There is one campus visit, though. It’s a weeklong class in the summer. There’s also a Symposium Day after the final semester. Additionally, there is an optional on-campus orientation. It’s highly recommended that you attend that as well.

Furthermore, this occupational therapy program doesn’t interfere with your work schedule. Instead, the goal is to build new skills you can apply in your current job.

• Critical inquiry of scholarship
• Studies in evidence-based practice
• Innovations and emerging issues in children and youth
• Adult health care

There is also a doctoral capstone project. It allows you to contribute to the body of research in occupational therapy. You’ll also gain critical skills to apply in the field.

If you only have a bachelor’s degree, you can still enter this program. This is a unique feature. It might help you get your doctorate more quickly. You’ll have to complete Quinnipiac’s Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Occupational Therapy first.

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

Get more information about Quinnipiac University’s Online Occupational Therapy Doctorate .

Frequently asked questions about the best doctoral degrees online with no dissertation, are there any 1-year phd programs online.

There are some 1-year PhD programs online. Typically, online doctoral programs take at least three years to complete. In many cases, your studies might take up to five years.

Usually, 1-year PhD programs online are accelerated degree programs. You need prior knowledge and experience to enroll in a program like this. So, for example, if you have a master’s degree in business administration, you might be able to complete a PhD program in business administration in as little as one year or two years.

These higher education programs require you to attend school year-round to meet the year deadline. This means taking summer courses. You might also take intersession courses between the spring and summer semesters and again between the summer and fall semesters.

What is the easiest PhD without dissertation to get?

While PhD programs are rigorous, some online doctoral programs are less challenging than others. The level of challenge depends on other factors, too:

• your study habits
• your ability to finish coursework
• your existing level of education and experience

For example, if you already have a master’s degree in counseling psychology and have worked as a counseling psychologist for ten years, getting a PhD in counseling psychology will be easier for you than for those with less experience.

Having said that, there are some disciplines known for being easier than others. This might make getting a PhD in those areas easier.

PhDs with a reputation for being easy include:

• Educational Curriculum and Instruction
• Educational Leadership
• Educational Leadership and Management
• College Policy and Administration
• Health Sciences
• Business Administration
• Nursing Practice
• Technology Management
• Safety Sciences
• Doctor of Philosophy

Many of the easiest PhDs to get are in the field of education. Again, a large part of this is because people that seek out education-related PhDs already have a great deal of practical experience in education. They likely already have a master’s degree in education as well.

How are PhD programs for working adults structured?

Many colleges and universities offer PhD programs for working adults that are highly flexible. You can get a higher education degree while working around your work and family schedules.

In most cases, these PhD courses are online. Completing your course requirements is much easier by removing the need to travel to a college campus for class and doing distance learning.

You can do this without sacrificing the classroom experience of working with your classmates and professors. This is because many online doctoral programs offer video conferencing and live streaming. You and your classmates can see and hear one another, interact with your professors, and work together on collaborative projects.

In some cases, online courses for working adults are in an asynchronous format. You can take courses in an order that best fits your schedule.

Furthermore, many of the courses in these types of degree programs are self-directed. This means you can complete assignments and other course requirements on your own schedule, not the professor’s.

Granted, self-paced learning is not a feature of all online courses that working adults might take. It is reasonable to assume that at least some of your courses will follow that format.

Another feature of online PhD programs is that they are often flexible in terms of how long you take to complete them. For example, if a higher education program normally takes three years to complete, you might be able to work on graduation requirements for four or five years to get the same degree. If going part-time works better for you, it might take longer but can still be accomplished.

There are typically many different class options as well. For example, a course might be offered in the spring semester and the fall, and perhaps even in the summer. This gives you greater flexibility for completing the necessary courses.

In some cases, you might also find that colleges and universities work with you to transfer existing credits or give you credit for work experiences. Doing so reduces the number of course credits you need to take to get the desired PhD.

This, in turn, reduces the amount of time you need to complete your PhD program. Not all schools accept transfer credits, though. Check with the schools you’re considering to be sure your existing credits are accepted.

Related Reading:

• Best Online Doctorates in Sports Medicine
• Best Online Graduate Certificate in Restorative Justice

Quick Facts

Schoolwide rankings.

Programs Offered Online

Want to continue learning?

Best Online Early Childhood Education Degrees

Best Online Hospitality Management Degrees

Best Online International Business Degrees

© Copyright 2024 Online Schools Report

• Graduate School

PhD Without Dissertation or Thesis

Featured Expert: Dr. Gurmeet Lall, PhD

Final doctoral projects can be intimidating or time-consuming, which is why many students look for a PhD without dissertation. What they soon discover while learning how to find a PhD topic is that the Doctor of Philosophy degree itself is heavily tied to research capabilities and publishing scholarship. As a result, it is very difficult to find PhD programs specifically that have no dissertation requirement. However, other doctoral degrees in various fields do exist and can be granted from programs without a traditional dissertation or thesis defense process.

This article lists the kinds of doctorate-level programs that do not have traditional dissertation requirements necessary for completion. We also cover what are the reasons a doctorate program without dissertation may or may not be beneficial for students, and how grad school application help can be used to make the decision.

Disclaimer: Please note: although we have made every effort to provide the most accurate information, admissions information changes frequently. Therefore, we encourage you to verify these details with the official university admissions office. You are responsible for your own results. BeMo does not endorse nor affiliate with any official universities, colleges, or test administrators and vice versa.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 9 min read

Examples of doctorate programs without dissertation.

Note: This is not an exhaustive list. These examples are simply meant to highlight the various types of doctorate programs that are available and how they address the lack of a traditional dissertation to complete their program.

1.     Education & Leadership in Healthcare Online Doctorate at Nebraska Methodist College

This virtual option from Nebraska Methodist College does not require any formal dissertation nor the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Instead, students in this full-time 24-month (or 36-month, part-time) program must complete a Doctoral Capstone Project. The final submission is a translational research project that explores a question within a field relevant to the program that is meant to align with your career goals.

Are you working on your grad school application? Watch this video:

2.     EdD Program in Educational Leadership at Nova Southeastern University

This on-campus program in Fort Lauderdale, Florida offers two Capstone options for completing your education. One is an applied dissertation and the other is a Strategic Research Project (SRP). Both options are meant to prepare graduates for educational leadership. Career paths after this degree include school superintendent, professor of education, and education consulting, among others.

3.     Online Doctor of Business Administration at Liberty University

In this 100% online program, students can choose from various specialized paths to further their education of management in the corporate world. Through mentorship from respected business professionals, you will learn the skills to advance your career. No dissertation is required for completion of this DBA program.

4.     Transitional Doctorate in Physical Therapy at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Medicine

At one of the top medical schools in North Carolina , this transitional DPT program with web-based instruction is for licensed physical therapists who wish to continue practicing while pursuing this degree. It is only offered on a part-time schedule over 2 years and requires the completion of 27 credits of approved coursework. There is no final or dissertation project.

As you see from the list above, it is very uncommon for a PhD program to not have a dissertation or thesis at the end of it. Programs labelled with the Doctor of Philosophy moniker tend to be based in research, which lend themselves to the student completing a final cumulative research project such as a dissertation. When you answer, “Why do you want to a PhD?” , your answer will typically involve specific research interests you wish to pursue. If you want to pursue a PhD but do not want to complete a dissertation, you may want to explore other viable education options. PhDs and research are inherently linked, so it is difficult to find PhD programs specifically that do not require any form of dissertation.

Instead, what you will likely find is that there are various other degrees, such as a Doctor of Education, that do not require a formal dissertation. In these cases, a traditional thesis is replaced by another form of cumulative project or work experience. In some cases, there could be no final project at all. These are still not common but are more likely to appear in your search results. Deciding what path you would like to pursue will come once you figure out your plans for how to find a job after grad school . The eventual career you are aiming for may impact your ultimate decision to enroll in a doctorate program without a dissertation to complete. Here are some of the pros and cons of these rare kinds of programs:

• No Thesis Responsibility. One of the main pros of a doctorate degree without dissertation is that you will not have to learn how to prepare for a thesis defense . While some other capstone project or culminating experience may be required, you may not necessarily need to defend your research in front of professors or other faculty. Preparing for a thesis defense can be one of the most nerve-wracking parts of your PhD. After having done all the research over the last year or so and written a document that could be hundreds of pages long, justifying your work puts a lot of pressure on your shoulders. Having no dissertation at all will waive this requirement and prevent you from having to review any thesis defense questions .
• No Limitations. Doctoral programs without a dissertation can also be more flexible in nature. They could be delivered online, for instance, so you do not need to be living in the same city as your university to successfully complete your degree. That is a huge advantage for those who are employed or cannot afford the travel expenses. It allows higher education degrees to become more accessible overall. Depending on the requirements of the program and the department offering it, these types of programs can become some of the easiest PhD programs to get into due to their open access.
• No Wasted Time. These types of degrees may also take less time to complete since there is no long dissertation to complete beforehand. You will need to spend less time finding thesis writing services , working on the project with your supervisor, and can focus on coursework or other commitments instead. It is no secret that graduate students have a lot on their plate. Working on a dissertation can make a PhD a very singular and lonely experience, so having the option to opt out of it may be very beneficial for the education and well-being of many students.
• No Unnecessary Research. If you are planning to figure out how to transition from academia to industry , a doctorate degree without dissertation may be worth it for you. The research required for lends itself to academic jobs, meaning that jobs in industry are less likely to see as much value in a complex research project. When a career in industry is of interest to you, you may to consider alternative doctoral programs that better suit your interests. Whatever field you are interested in, getting professional experience at the end of a PhD may be more beneficial to you than a dissertation will.
• Career Preparation. Those that wish to learn how to find a job in academia know that it can be competitive and difficult, even if you have a doctorate degree. It is never guaranteed that you will find a stable position at a college or university after graduation. Getting a role with tenure or finding the right amount of teaching experience is not the simplest of tasks, which can lead to a lot of uncertainty and doubt in PhD students. Resolving those worries starts with getting as much research possible. Being aware of how to publish as a graduate student is key, but your dissertation is also a great way to indicate that you have what it takes to succeed in a career in academia from a research perspective. If you need to find a postdoc position or hope to continue working as a professor, completing a dissertation during your PhD will be a step in the right direction.
• Skill Recognition. A program without a dissertation may not be the best representation of your skills or abilities. They are often very specific or only benefit a particular subset of students/professionals already working in the field. In contrast, PhD programs with a dissertation can lend themselves more to what you are good at if you are a talented writer and researcher or do not meet the criteria for a more specified program. If this is the case, traditional research programs might be more appealing to you. An internship or another type of project may not be the most ideal reflection of how you can contribute to a future career. Therefore, a doctorate degree without a dissertation may be too much of a jump away from your goals.
• Negative Reputation. Due to a doctorate degree with no dissertation being a more modern concept, it may also be seen as of lower value than a traditional research PhDs in a variety of industries as well as academic settings. As these programs are more likely to be fully online, this may give them a bad rap as well. Changes to the traditional format of academic study may require additional explanation to employers and could result in lower job prospects. As always, this will certainly depend on what field you are entering, but not completing a dissertation can potentially sour your CV in the eyes of those who are hiring.
• Restrictive Matriculation. As much as graduate programs without a dissertation may be flexible, they are also restrictive in other ways. While online programs can be extremely convenient for some students, others simply do not learn the best in that environment. Virtual delivery of courses can be one of the best graduate school recruitment strategies , but can also alienate other types of students and deter them from applying. The majority of these doctorate programs are completely online or require you to already be a working professional, which might not be the case for some of those.

 Conclusion

The higher education landscape is ever-changing. What is necessary to access the highest level of learning possible constantly shifts as the years go by. With online programs, you have more options than ever before when considering the ways to achieve a valuable education that will lead to a fulfilling career. When evaluating should you pursue a master’s or a PhD , really get down to the reason why you are completing a graduate degree. Search different universities and programs to see what is out there for you. An informed decision is always the smartest one, so it is important to become very familiar with the choices available early on.

Speaking with PhD consultants can also be helpful for your applications or for determining what is the right program that will serve you best based on your individual goals. Depending on your discipline and interests, a dissertation (or a graduate program, in general) may not always be necessary to achieve your dream. Ideally, you will want your eventual program to match with your grad school career goals statement and get you the best shot at securing your future plans. It is up to you with regards to how you get there.

PhD programs in particular are meant to prove your suitability for the field you are pursuing. With the degree, you are expected to be a working academic with the expectation of contributing to current scholarship in some way. This means that you have to be able to present forward-thinking research and fill gaps in contemporary publications. The dissertation or thesis is a culmination of your graduate school research displayed in one final project that you must defend. 

While you may have another form of final project, not having to write a long dissertation or prepare for a thesis defense will be a plus for a lot of applicants. They can also be fully delivered online and be more accessible to students living in another place. These types of programs seem to suit more industry jobs rather than other careers in academia, which may be appealing to applicants who wish to transition to industry.

The programs that do not require a dissertation may be seen as less valuable than ones that do, depending on the discipline. The online format most of the programs entail may be a benefit for others, but a detriment to others. A doctorate degree can also be not as useful for students who wish to continue working in academic settings, where research experience is crucial.

Some of the most common doctoral degrees you will find that do not require a PhD are Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and other doctorates related to public health domains.

Many programs will still have a final submission or capstone project as part of their curriculum that does not need the same amount of research effort as a formal dissertation. They may also need to complete for some of field experience that illustrates their capabilities for working within the discipline chosen. For instance, 

Most of the time, you do not need a master’s or PhD to apply to medical school . If you meet the other academic requirements such as high MCAT and GPA scores, a graduate degree will not necessarily boost your chances. If you were to complete a master’s or doctorate-level degree, you will likely need to have research experience regardless, so choosing a program with a thesis or dissertation will probably be more beneficial to you in the long run.

Academic positions are more focused on teaching and research in a higher education setting. They could be listed as on the tenure-track, which leads to permanent employment, or the non-tenure-track, which does not guarantee permanent employment. Industry jobs tend to work outside of universities and are based within enterprises and other for-profit companies. Many PhDs and other doctoral-level graduates can work in either the academic or industry setting, depending on their interests or job prospects in the field.

Seeking professional help from a grad school admissions consultant can improve all aspects of your application. They are typically trained experts who are very knowledgeable about competitive academic programs at the graduate level. They can assist with writing or editing graduate school statement of purpose , conduct interview simulations, situational judgment test preparation, and more. If you are struggling with deciding between a dissertation and non-dissertation doctoral programs, consultants can point you in the right direction that aligns with your goals.

Want more free tips? Subscribe to our channels for more free and useful content!

Apple Podcasts

Like our blog? Write for us ! >>

Have a question ask our admissions experts below and we'll answer your questions, get started now.

Talk to one of our admissions experts

Our site uses cookies. By using our website, you agree with our cookie policy .

FREE Training Webinar:

How to make your grad school application stand out, (and avoid the top 5 mistakes that get most rejected).

Time Sensitive. Limited Spots Available:

We guarantee you'll get into grad school or you don't pay.

Swipe up to see a great offer!

On this page

Back to top

Inside Online DBA Programs with No Dissertation

Ready to earn your DBA without dedicating all your time to a dissertation project? Explore top programs and get answers to your most pressing questions.

Search hundreds of top schools for the doctorate YOU want.

Michael Hoffman

Last updated

Feb 20, 2024

Business professionals in pursuit of top-level positions in their chosen field today often look past the popular — and still valuable — MBA and toward a doctorate. For those interested in careers in academia and advanced research, that will likely mean a PhD in business . But what if your interests lie elsewhere? Say, in gaining advanced business knowledge and skills to apply to top positions in business management and practice?

That’s where the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) comes in. The DBA is geared toward those seeking top-tier careers away from academia in the “real” business world. Strangely enough, despite focusing more on practical application than research, most DBA programs still require their students to complete an academic dissertation. Before you let that discourage you, remember we said “ most DBA programs.” There is a major trend developing among DBA programs, particularly those online, of ditching the dissertation requirement altogether and replacing it with an alternative culminating activity.

This guide offers an introduction to the world of those online DBA programs with no dissertation requirement. Below you’ll find lots of valuable information on how no-dissertation DBA programs work, who they’re for, how they’re structured, what they cost, and more. So, if your goal is to advance to the top levels of the business profession — without spending years caught up in theories and academia —keep reading to discover how you can get there through one of today’s best online DBA programs with no dissertation requirement. 

School Spotlights: Online DBA Programs with No Dissertation

To give you a good idea of what DBA programs without dissertation requirements entail, we’ve spotlighted three below. Curricula, admission requirements, and cost will obviously vary from program to program, but you can use these as a framework for what to expect as you continue your search.

California Intercontinental University

California Intercontinental University (CIU) is a private postsecondary institution headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. CIU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees featuring 100% online formats. Students of its Doctor of Business Administration program can choose to pursue a general business concentration or one of the following four specializations: Entrepreneurship and Business Management, Global Business and Leadership, Healthcare Management and Leadership, and Information Systems and Enterprise Resource Management.

Regardless of their specialization, students have the option of completing a research project as their culminating project in place of a traditional dissertation. Admissions requirements include a master’s degree earned with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and a minimum three to five years of professional experience in a business, corporate, or entrepreneurial environment. Applicants with a non-business master’s degree may be required to complete graduate-level pre-requisites prior to admission.

CIU is an excellent option for students looking for affordable online DBA programs . The current tuition rate for the 60-credit program is $529 per credit and the estimated total program cost is $36,675. CIU is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and its business program is currently a candidate for accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

Bellevue University

Bellevue University, a private institution located in Bellevue, Nebraska, offers a no-dissertation Doctor of Business Administration program that can be completed 100% online with no campus residencies. Courses are delivered in an asynchronous format that allows students to log on and complete their coursework at any time. In place of a dissertation, students complete an applied research project as their culminating activity. Students start their projects in their first year and continue to work on them throughout their course of study alongside other course requirements.

Admission into Bellevue’s DBA program requires an MBA or equivalent degree from a properly accredited college or university earned with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Additional application requirements include a current resume and a 1,000-word personal statement. GMAT/GRE test scores are not required.

The current per-credit tuition rate for this 91-credit program is $799. Up to 36 credits of approved coursework from the student’s MBA program may be transferred in to satisfy DBA course requirements, allowing students to save substantially and complete their program in as few as three years. 

Liberty University

Liberty University is another private school that offers a fully accredited Doctor of Business Administration program entirely online. What sets Liberty’s DBA apart from other programs is the availability of a whopping 17 specialization options. Specializations include common business fields like healthcare management, leadership, and marketing, as well as less common fields like executive coaching, six sigma, and tourism management. Following completion of their coursework, Liberty DBA students complete an applied doctoral research project (ADRP) addressing a current business problem relevant to their specialization. The entire degree program is designed to be completed in as few as three years.

Admission into Liberty’s online DBA program requires a master’s degree in business or closely related field with a minimum of 30 hours of graduate-level business credits earned with a 3.0 or better GPA. Students applying to a specialization may be required to possess a master’s in that field. For example, students applying to the DBA in Accounting program must possess an MS or MBA in accounting.

The current per-credit tuition rate for this 60-credit program is $595 for full-time students and $650 for part-time students. Students may be able to transfer up to 50% of the total credits needed to earn their DBA.

Comparing Dissertation Alternatives for DBA Students

Online DBA programs with no dissertation still require students to complete some form of culminating project or other activity to demonstrate their mastery of course material. Understanding which alternative will work best for you before you enroll in an online DBA program is critical to your academic success. Here’s a look at the most common of those alternatives: the business consulting project and the doctoral research project.

Business Consulting Project

Students completing a business consulting project collaborate with a small business or nonprofit organization to gain valuable real-world experience. Acting as consultant-scholars, students create a doctoral study that analyzes, write a report on, and propose a solution to a problem related to a service, product, or method of the business. The business consulting project is a relatively common culminating activity for MBA programs but is less common in DBA programs. One example of a DBA program that offers the business consulting project as a dissertation alternative is the Online DBA Program at Walden University . To learn more about how its business consulting project option works, visit Walden’s What is a Consulting Capstone Project? webpage.

Doctoral Research Project

By far the most common of all alternatives in online DBA programs without a dissertation is the doctoral research project, the details of which we dive into just below. Generally speaking, though, the doctoral research project offers DBA students a valuable opportunity to conduct academic research that addresses a specific topic and apply that research to a real-world business practice issue. Along with the three programs spotlighted above, schools offering online DBA programs with doctoral research projects as a requirement or option include Capella University , Trevecca Nazarene University , and the University of Pittsburgh .

Components of a Doctoral Research Project: A Closer Look

The doctoral research project is the most common alternative to the dissertation, which is why we’ve broken it down into its component parts below. Keep in mind that while, not all projects are the same, this can give you a good idea of what to expect. Be sure to review the specific project requirements for your online DBA program when you enroll.

Doctoral research projects for DBA programs may follow any of a number of formats depending on the specific program and audience for the project. Most employ a variation of the traditional five-chapter format common to most dissertations. Chapter titles typically include Introduction, Literature Review, Methodology, Results, and Discussion/Application to Practice. Research projects created to address an issue or problem for a specific business organization may employ a modified version of the five-chapter format or use a different format entirely to best address the issue and the needs of that organization.

Given the differences in each program’s specific format requirements, it’s important that you consult with your online DBA program’s handbook to gain a detailed understanding of those requirements. Your handbook will, of course, also detail all other components of your research project, as well as your entire DBA program. Examples of handbooks for online no-dissertation DBA programs include these from Indiana Wesleyan University and Liberty University .

The purpose of the doctoral research project is to provide the student a way to demonstrate their mastery of course content as well as research skills that are foundational to their subsequent professional business practice. This is similar to the purpose of the dissertation. The major difference in purposes between the two is that the doctoral research project centers on applying research relevant to the project’s subject matter (an aspect of applied practice) as opposed to the creation of original research to bridge a gap in extant literature. In short, the research project focuses on the application of existing theories while the dissertation focuses on adding to and extending those theories. For more on the purpose of the doctoral research project, check out this article on the Online Accredited DBA Research Program from California Intercontinental University.

Scope & Length

Scope – as it relates to your doctoral research project – refers to the extent and parameters of the study you propose. This typically takes the form of your definition of the study and what it will cover, followed by a description of the limitations you expect to face in carrying out the research required. Total word counts can vary substantially, but most research projects fall between 45,000 and 65,000 words.

The time it takes you to complete your doctoral research project depends on a number of factors, including your work pace and, most significantly, your specific program. For example, students in Liberty University’s DBA program typically begin work on their doctoral research projects upon completion of the program’s didactic coursework and commonly take around one year to complete them.

On the other hand, students in Bellevue University’s DBA program start their projects in the first year of their programs and continue working on them throughout their full course of study (typically three years or more).

Generally speaking, projects are completed by following a set of sequential milestones that mirror the chapter sequence of the project report (see the Format section above). Examples of project milestone sequences can be found in the Indiana Wesleyan University and Trident University DBA program handbooks.

Answering Your FAQs About Dissertation-Free DBA Programs

We’ve covered a lot of ground in this guide, but choosing to pursue a DBA is not something to do lightly — or without asking important questions. We’ve collected and answered some of the most common questions asked by prospective students of online no-dissertation DBA programs to help you feel more confident in taking the next step and knowing what to ask next.

Are DBA programs without dissertations seen as equally legitimate by employers?

That will depend on the specific employer, but it’s much more likely that your employer will be more interested in where you received your DBA — your school’s reputation and accreditation, above all — than if you completed a dissertation. It’s also possible that employers outside academia or research will prefer to hire applicants who completed an applied research project over those that wrote academic dissertations.

Can graduates pursue academic positions without a traditional dissertation?

The simple answer is probably not. Once again, however, that will depend on the specific academic institution for which you hope to work and in what capacity. Nevertheless, if you intend for your career path to work its way through the world of academia, you will want to seriously consider a PhD in business administration or DBA with a dissertation instead of a non-dissertation DBA program. At the end of the day, dissertations are intended to prepare you for the rigorous research that these academic positions demand.

How can students customize their focus or specialization area in these programs?

The dissertation is traditionally the instrument through which doctoral students in business focus their studies on a particular area of interest. Rest assured that even without a dissertation, you’ll have the same opportunity to customize your DBA studies to fit your specific interests via the subject of your applied research project. Of course, many schools also offer students the ability to tailor their studies through a specialization or concentration option. Examples include the DBA programs at Liberty University and California Intercontinental University (both spotlighted above) as well as Walden University , which offers four specializations plus the option for students to design their own specialization.

How long does it typically take to complete a DBA program without a dissertation?

Most online DBA programs with no dissertation requirement are designed to be completed in as few as three years — including all coursework and the applied research project. It’s important to note, however, that most programs allow students additional time to complete their courses of study as necessary. For example, George Fox University’s hybrid DBA program (which offers a project portfolio option as a dissertation alternative) allows up to seven year for degree completion.

What is the difference in admission criteria for traditional DBA programs and those without dissertation requirements?

In general terms, admissions requirements for online no-dissertation DBA programs are quite similar to those for dissertation DBA programs. All typically require applicants to possess an MBA (or master’s in a business-related field) earned with a minimum cumulative GPA. If there is a major difference in admissions criteria, it concerns professional work experience.

Online DBA programs with no dissertation often require applicants to have substantial professional experience — typically between three and five years’ worth. Indiana Wesleyan University’s DBA program , for example, requires applicants to have at least five years’ work experience in the field of their chosen specialization. The work experience requirement is not as common with DBA programs requiring a dissertation. However, this is far from a hard-and-fast rule.

What kind of support do students receive while completing their capstone or final project?

Students in virtually all DBA online programs without a dissertation requirement are assigned a “research chair” or other faculty member whose job it is to provide them with guidance and support throughout the research project process. Additional support services are also typically available. For example, the Online DBA Program at Indiana Wesleyan University features a single learning management system through which students can access a number of research, writing, consulting, and other valuable resources.

Question: Are there any online EdD programs that do not require a dissertation?

Answer: Yes – Several schools that offer Doctor of Education degrees online do not require students to complete a traditional dissertation. However, these programs typically include another type of capstone requirement, such as an applied project or requiring students to publish a journal quality research article.

At this time, the majority of online Ed.D. programs require students to complete a dissertation in order to earn their doctorate. There are, however, options for those who do not wish to write a traditional research-based thesis. Several programs now offer students the opportunity to develop and implement a more action-oriented “dissertation-in-practice” dissertation or an applied capstone project. While these capstone options also require a considerable amount of research and writing, they differ from traditional dissertations, focusing more on producing direct solutions to existing problems in education or organizational leadership, instead of furthering theory in the field.

A traditional dissertation has a formal five-chapter structure and aims to contribute to the existing scholarly literature on a topic in education development or leadership. The dissertation-in-practice, on the other hand, is an applied dissertation that still maintains the formal structure of the traditional dissertation, but focuses more on specific education challenges that students experience in their place of work. In contrast, the applied project is distinct from a dissertation in that it does not abide by the formal five-chapter dissertation structure, and has a more applied objective that relates to investigating or solving an educational practice or learning outcomes problem. In most cases, students who choose an applied project are tasked with examining an education challenge at their current place of employment (or one that is present regionally), and making an improvement to strategies or methods used in their organization or district.

Students should note that regardless of the option they choose, all three culminating experiences require rigorous research and writing. To learn more about the differences between these three capstone experiences, and to see a list of online programs that include an applied project option, continue reading below. (Note: At this time, the majority of online Ed.D. programs require students to complete some sort of a capstone experience whether it is a traditional research dissertation, a dissertation-in-practice, or an applied doctoral project.)

Ed.D. Dissertation and Dissertation-In-Practice vs. Applied Project

While each is an extensive undertaking, intended to represent the culmination of one’s doctoral studies, a traditional Ed.D. dissertation, a dissertation-in-practice, and an applied capstone project are all similar to and distinct from each other depending on how you compare them. Additionally, for Ed.D. students, one option is not inherently better than the other; therefore, it is important to understand the similarities and differences and to choose an option that best aligns with a student’s educational and professional goals.

For students who are worried about the time it may take to complete a traditional dissertation, many Ed.D. programs are now better incorporating dissertation work into the curriculum. From the beginning of students’ enrollment, these programs have a structured environment in which students conduct their research, write their dissertation chapters, and consult with instructors for their dissertation work. This is a fairly recent change from the way dissertations have historically been completed in doctoral programs, where the student embarks on his or her dissertation work after he or she completes all of the program coursework.

Ed.D. Dissertation

The dissertation is an original research study, in which students use qualitative and/or quantitative research methods to examine and analyze a specific issue related to education. The goal of this project is to contribute new insights on a particular topic in the field, making a positive impact on established methods or theories by advancing existing research.

Students typically begin the dissertation process by formulating a specific research question to investigate. After reviewing past research on the subject, they then design and conduct a study of their own and analyze the results. The final product is a five-chapter document detailing the entire dissertation process, including students’ research methodology and conclusions drawn from their findings. Overall, students can expect to spend a significant portion of their Ed.D. studies planning for and completing their dissertation. Most programs include multiple courses related to dissertation research and development, and allow for one or more years of independent study to finish the project. The entire process is typically overseen by a dissertation committee comprised of program faculty, who provide mentorship and make sure students reach certain deadlines along the way. In most cases, students must present their initial research proposal to this committee for approval, as well as explain their findings during a formal dissertation defense at the end of their studies. For Ed.D. students, a traditional dissertation is very similar to what students in a Ph.D. program complete.

Ed.D. Dissertation-In-Practice

Unlike a Ph.D. in Education, the Doctor of Education degree is more focused on practice than scholarly research. Indeed, with the establishment of the Carnegie Project for the Education Doctorate (CPED) as a guiding organization in the area of Ed.D. curriculum development, a growing number of Ed.D. programs have joined CPED and expressed their commitment to the scholar-practitioner model. As such, many Ed.D. programs are beginning to offer alternative dissertation options that more closely align with the Ed.D.’s role as a practitioner’s degree. Therefore, students who prefer to focus on practical skills and real-world applications over intensive academic inquiry should look for programs that offer a dissertation-in-practice and/or an applied project option.

The dissertation-in-practice is, in many ways, a compromise on the historical requirement that students must complete a dissertation in order to earn their doctorate, and the central mission of the Ed.D. degree to train students to be advanced scholar-practitioners (i.e. educational leaders who use research to solve education problems and challenges in their place of practice). Instead of focusing on furthering scholarly understanding of a particular issue in education, the goal of a dissertation-in-practice is to address a specific problem of practice (as such, a dissertation-in-practice is often referred to as an applied dissertation). Students who elect to complete a dissertation-in-practice identify a research question pertaining to a specific problem they wish to solve in their own place of work, or an educational issue that is affecting their region (e.g. school district or community).

Students completing a dissertation-in-practice utilize qualitative and/or quantitative research methodologies to investigate their research question, and to gather data that will provide insights on addressing, preventing, or mitigating their chosen education problem. They also generally follow the same process that students completing traditional dissertations follow, which includes forming a faculty research committee, submitting and presenting a research proposal, writing their paper, and presenting their final conclusions to their committee. In general, dissertations-in-practice also follow the same formal five-chapter structure as a traditional dissertation, but the implications of students’ research are much more aligned with the goal of directly improving learning outcomes or enacting positive change in organizations and systems of education.

Ed.D. Capstone Project

An Ed.D. capstone project, on the other hand, is quite different from a traditional dissertation or even a dissertation-in-practice. While an applied project may have a similar scope or address a similar question as a dissertation-in-practice, instead of creating a traditional five-chapter dissertation, students typically have a much more concrete deliverable, designed to be implemented immediately with the goal of improving performance or learning outcomes in a particular setting. This can take many different forms, such as a new curriculum plan for students, a staff training program, a piece of learning software, a district-wide technology strategy, potential policy changes, or recommendations for other organizational improvements that may help solve a current educational issue.

As with a dissertation, students typically complete this project under the guidance of faculty mentors. They must submit their initial proposal for approval, as well as defend the final product in front of their project committee. Most Ed.D. programs that have an applied project option also include a number of credits or courses directly related to capstone development, as well as certain deadlines students must meet during the process. In the end, these projects are generally just as rigorous as a traditional dissertation, requiring a similar time commitment as well as substantial research and writing.

Note : For the most detailed information on a program’s dissertation or capstone requirement–as well as how the program may define a traditional dissertation vs. a dissertation-in-practice vs. a capstone project–it is always best to contact the program directly.

Online Ed.D. Programs with No Dissertation Required

Below is a list of online Doctor of Education programs that include an applied project rather than a dissertation (e.g., traditional research dissertation or a dissertation-in-practice) as their capstone requirement. Students interested in earning their Ed.D. without completing a dissertation have a variety of degree options to choose from, with specializations ranging from P-12 Educational Administration to Global Sport Leadership. Keep in mind, the requirements and goal of each program’s capstone project or culminating experience may vary, depending largely on the degree’s particular area of focus within education or organizational leadership.

Below are the schools that currently offer Ed.D. programs online which do not require a dissertation (either a traditional dissertation or a dissertation in practice):

• A.T. Still University : Doctor of Education in Health Professions (Doctoral Research Project)
• Boston College : Executive Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education (Professional Capstone Project)
• Bradley University : Doctor of Education – Higher Education Administration (Action Research Project and an Applied Internship)
• Cornerstone University : Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Development (Organizational Leadership and Development Project)
• East Tennessee State University : Doctor of Education in Global Sport Leadership (Doctoral Capstone Project)
• Kent State University : Online Ed.D. in Interprofessional Leadership (Comprehensive Paper or Capstone Project)
• Liberty University : Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction (Capstone Project)
• Liberty University : Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (Capstone Project)
• Marymount University : Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Organizational Innovation (Doctoral Project/Final Research Paper)
• Morehead State University : Doctor of Education with Specializations in Adult and Higher Education Leadership, P-12 Administrative Leadership, and Educational Technology Leadership (Doctoral Capstone Project)
• National Louis University : Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership (Doctoral Capstone)
• National University : Doctor of Education in Organizational Innovation (Culminating Project)
• Nebraska Methodist College : Doctor of Education in Education and Leadership in Healthcare (Capstone Project)
• New York University : Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation (Capstone Project)
• Rockhurst University : Online Ed.D. in Education and Leadership (Capstone Project)
• The University of Louisiana at Monroe : Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (Capstone Project or Three Publishable Research Articles)
• The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill : Doctor of Education in Organizational Learning and Leadership (Three Semester Capstone Courses and Project)
• The University of Southern Mississippi : Doctor of Education in P-12 Educational Administration (Four-chapter Capstone Project)
• The University of Southern Mississippi : Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration (Field-based Capstone Project)
• University of Miami : Doctor of Education in Applied Learning Sciences (Group Project and Individual Paper)
• University of Virginia : Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (Capstone Project)
• Vanderbilt University : Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning in Organizations (Group Capstone Project)
• Virginia Commonwealth University : Ed.D. in Leadership (Collaborative Group Study Capstone)
• West Texas A&M University : Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (Two Publication-worthy Research Articles)
• Wilmington University : Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership (Applied Inquiry Project)

When researching potential programs, students should decide which type of capstone experience best fits their academic and professional goals. Ultimately, it is important to choose a degree that both aligns with one’s particular learning style and provides them with the type of training needed to advance in their field of interest. To learn more about any of the Ed.D. programs listed above, as well as their specific capstone requirements, students should visit the school’s website or contact an admissions representative.

Online EdD Program FAQs

• Are there any fully online EdD programs?
• FAQ: Are there any online EdD programs in kinesiology?
• FAQ: Are there any online EdD programs in TESOL and English Language Learning?
• Are there any online EdD programs that can be completed in 2 years?
• Are there any online EdD programs that do not require a master’s degree for admission?
• Are there any online EdD programs that do not require the GRE for admission?
• Are there any online EdS to EdD degree programs?
• Are there any schools that offer faith-based EdD programs online?
• Are there online EdD programs with an ABD option?
• How long does it take to complete an online EdD program?
• What is an embedded dissertation in EdD programs?

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

• Knowledge Base
• Dissertation

What Is a Dissertation? | Guide, Examples, & Template

A dissertation is a long-form piece of academic writing based on original research conducted by you. It is usually submitted as the final step in order to finish a PhD program.

Your dissertation is probably the longest piece of writing you’ve ever completed. It requires solid research, writing, and analysis skills, and it can be intimidating to know where to begin.

Your department likely has guidelines related to how your dissertation should be structured. When in doubt, consult with your supervisor.

You can also download our full dissertation template in the format of your choice below. The template includes a ready-made table of contents with notes on what to include in each chapter, easily adaptable to your department’s requirements.

Download Word template Download Google Docs template

• In the US, a dissertation generally refers to the collection of research you conducted to obtain a PhD.
• In other countries (such as the UK), a dissertation often refers to the research you conduct to obtain your bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

Table of contents

Dissertation committee and prospectus process, how to write and structure a dissertation, acknowledgements or preface, list of figures and tables, list of abbreviations, introduction, literature review, methodology, reference list, proofreading and editing, defending your dissertation, free checklist and lecture slides.

When you’ve finished your coursework, as well as any comprehensive exams or other requirements, you advance to “ABD” (All But Dissertation) status. This means you’ve completed everything except your dissertation.

Prior to starting to write, you must form your committee and write your prospectus or proposal . Your committee comprises your adviser and a few other faculty members. They can be from your own department, or, if your work is more interdisciplinary, from other departments. Your committee will guide you through the dissertation process, and ultimately decide whether you pass your dissertation defense and receive your PhD.

Your prospectus is a formal document presented to your committee, usually orally in a defense, outlining your research aims and objectives and showing why your topic is relevant . After passing your prospectus defense, you’re ready to start your research and writing.

The only proofreading tool specialized in correcting academic writing - try for free!

The academic proofreading tool has been trained on 1000s of academic texts and by native English editors. Making it the most accurate and reliable proofreading tool for students.

Try for free

The structure of your dissertation depends on a variety of factors, such as your discipline, topic, and approach. Dissertations in the humanities are often structured more like a long essay , building an overall argument to support a central thesis , with chapters organized around different themes or case studies.

However, hard science and social science dissertations typically include a review of existing works, a methodology section, an analysis of your original research, and a presentation of your results , presented in different chapters.

Dissertation examples

We’ve compiled a list of dissertation examples to help you get started.

• Example dissertation #1: Heat, Wildfire and Energy Demand: An Examination of Residential Buildings and Community Equity (a dissertation by C. A. Antonopoulos about the impact of extreme heat and wildfire on residential buildings and occupant exposure risks).
• Example dissertation #2: Exploring Income Volatility and Financial Health Among Middle-Income Households (a dissertation by M. Addo about income volatility and declining economic security among middle-income households).
• Example dissertation #3: The Use of Mindfulness Meditation to Increase the Efficacy of Mirror Visual Feedback for Reducing Phantom Limb Pain in Amputees (a dissertation by N. S. Mills about the effect of mindfulness-based interventions on the relationship between mirror visual feedback and the pain level in amputees with phantom limb pain).

The very first page of your document contains your dissertation title, your name, department, institution, degree program, and submission date. Sometimes it also includes your student number, your supervisor’s name, and the university’s logo.

Read more about title pages

The acknowledgements section is usually optional and gives space for you to thank everyone who helped you in writing your dissertation. This might include your supervisors, participants in your research, and friends or family who supported you. In some cases, your acknowledgements are part of a preface.

Read more about acknowledgements Read more about prefaces

The abstract is a short summary of your dissertation, usually about 150 to 300 words long. Though this may seem very short, it’s one of the most important parts of your dissertation, because it introduces your work to your audience.

Your abstract should:

• State your main topic and the aims of your research
• Describe your methods
• Summarize your main results
• State your conclusions

Read more about abstracts

The table of contents lists all of your chapters, along with corresponding subheadings and page numbers. This gives your reader an overview of your structure and helps them easily navigate your document.

Remember to include all main parts of your dissertation in your table of contents, even the appendices. It’s easy to generate a table automatically in Word if you used heading styles. Generally speaking, you only include level 2 and level 3 headings, not every subheading you included in your finished work.

Read more about tables of contents

While not usually mandatory, it’s nice to include a list of figures and tables to help guide your reader if you have used a lot of these in your dissertation. It’s easy to generate one of these in Word using the Insert Caption feature.

Read more about lists of figures and tables

Similarly, if you have used a lot of abbreviations (especially industry-specific ones) in your dissertation, you can include them in an alphabetized list of abbreviations so that the reader can easily look up their meanings.

Read more about lists of abbreviations

In addition to the list of abbreviations, if you find yourself using a lot of highly specialized terms that you worry will not be familiar to your reader, consider including a glossary. Here, alphabetize the terms and include a brief description or definition.

Read more about glossaries

The introduction serves to set up your dissertation’s topic, purpose, and relevance. It tells the reader what to expect in the rest of your dissertation. The introduction should:

• Establish your research topic , giving the background information needed to contextualize your work
• Narrow down the focus and define the scope of your research
• Discuss the state of existing research on the topic, showing your work’s relevance to a broader problem or debate
• Clearly state your research questions and objectives
• Outline the flow of the rest of your work

Everything in the introduction should be clear, engaging, and relevant. By the end, the reader should understand the what, why, and how of your research.

Read more about introductions

A formative part of your research is your literature review . This helps you gain a thorough understanding of the academic work that already exists on your topic.

Literature reviews encompass:

• Finding relevant sources (e.g., books and journal articles)
• Assessing the credibility of your sources
• Critically analyzing and evaluating each source
• Drawing connections between them (e.g., themes, patterns, conflicts, or gaps) to strengthen your overall point

A literature review is not merely a summary of existing sources. Your literature review should have a coherent structure and argument that leads to a clear justification for your own research. It may aim to:

• Address a gap in the literature or build on existing knowledge
• Take a new theoretical or methodological approach to your topic
• Propose a solution to an unresolved problem or advance one side of a theoretical debate

Read more about literature reviews

Theoretical framework

Your literature review can often form the basis for your theoretical framework. Here, you define and analyze the key theories, concepts, and models that frame your research.

Read more about theoretical frameworks

Your methodology chapter describes how you conducted your research, allowing your reader to critically assess its credibility. Your methodology section should accurately report what you did, as well as convince your reader that this was the best way to answer your research question.

A methodology section should generally include:

• The overall research approach ( quantitative vs. qualitative ) and research methods (e.g., a longitudinal study )
• Your data collection methods (e.g., interviews or a controlled experiment )
• Details of where, when, and with whom the research took place
• Any tools and materials you used (e.g., computer programs, lab equipment)
• Your data analysis methods (e.g., statistical analysis , discourse analysis )
• An evaluation or justification of your methods

Read more about methodology sections

Your results section should highlight what your methodology discovered. You can structure this section around sub-questions, hypotheses , or themes, but avoid including any subjective or speculative interpretation here.

Your results section should:

• Concisely state each relevant result together with relevant descriptive statistics (e.g., mean , standard deviation ) and inferential statistics (e.g., test statistics , p values )
• Briefly state how the result relates to the question or whether the hypothesis was supported
• Report all results that are relevant to your research questions , including any that did not meet your expectations.

Additional data (including raw numbers, full questionnaires, or interview transcripts) can be included as an appendix. You can include tables and figures, but only if they help the reader better understand your results. Read more about results sections

Your discussion section is your opportunity to explore the meaning and implications of your results in relation to your research question. Here, interpret your results in detail, discussing whether they met your expectations and how well they fit with the framework that you built in earlier chapters. Refer back to relevant source material to show how your results fit within existing research in your field.

Some guiding questions include:

• What do your results mean?
• Why do your results matter?
• What limitations do the results have?

If any of the results were unexpected, offer explanations for why this might be. It’s a good idea to consider alternative interpretations of your data.

Read more about discussion sections

Your dissertation’s conclusion should concisely answer your main research question, leaving your reader with a clear understanding of your central argument and emphasizing what your research has contributed to the field.

In some disciplines, the conclusion is just a short section preceding the discussion section, but in other contexts, it is the final chapter of your work. Here, you wrap up your dissertation with a final reflection on what you found, with recommendations for future research and concluding remarks.

It’s important to leave the reader with a clear impression of why your research matters. What have you added to what was already known? Why is your research necessary for the future of your field?

Read more about conclusions

It is crucial to include a reference list or list of works cited with the full details of all the sources that you used, in order to avoid plagiarism. Be sure to choose one citation style and follow it consistently throughout your dissertation. Each style has strict and specific formatting requirements.

Common styles include MLA , Chicago , and APA , but which style you use is often set by your department or your field.

Create APA citations Create MLA citations

Your dissertation should contain only essential information that directly contributes to answering your research question. Documents such as interview transcripts or survey questions can be added as appendices, rather than adding them to the main body.

Read more about appendices

Making sure that all of your sections are in the right place is only the first step to a well-written dissertation. Don’t forget to leave plenty of time for editing and proofreading, as grammar mistakes and sloppy spelling errors can really negatively impact your work.

Dissertations can take up to five years to write, so you will definitely want to make sure that everything is perfect before submitting. You may want to consider using a professional dissertation editing service , AI proofreader or grammar checker to make sure your final project is perfect prior to submitting.

After your written dissertation is approved, your committee will schedule a defense. Similarly to defending your prospectus, dissertation defenses are oral presentations of your work. You’ll present your dissertation, and your committee will ask you questions. Many departments allow family members, friends, and other people who are interested to join as well.

After your defense, your committee will meet, and then inform you whether you have passed. Keep in mind that defenses are usually just a formality; most committees will have resolved any serious issues with your work with you far prior to your defense, giving you ample time to fix any problems.

As you write your dissertation, you can use this simple checklist to make sure you’ve included all the essentials.

Checklist: Dissertation

My title page includes all information required by my university.

I have included acknowledgements thanking those who helped me.

My abstract provides a concise summary of the dissertation, giving the reader a clear idea of my key results or arguments.

I have created a table of contents to help the reader navigate my dissertation. It includes all chapter titles, but excludes the title page, acknowledgements, and abstract.

My introduction leads into my topic in an engaging way and shows the relevance of my research.

My introduction clearly defines the focus of my research, stating my research questions and research objectives .

My introduction includes an overview of the dissertation’s structure (reading guide).

I have conducted a literature review in which I (1) critically engage with sources, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of existing research, (2) discuss patterns, themes, and debates in the literature, and (3) address a gap or show how my research contributes to existing research.

I have clearly outlined the theoretical framework of my research, explaining the theories and models that support my approach.

I have thoroughly described my methodology , explaining how I collected data and analyzed data.

I have concisely and objectively reported all relevant results .

I have (1) evaluated and interpreted the meaning of the results and (2) acknowledged any important limitations of the results in my discussion .

I have clearly stated the answer to my main research question in the conclusion .

I have clearly explained the implications of my conclusion, emphasizing what new insight my research has contributed.

I have provided relevant recommendations for further research or practice.

If relevant, I have included appendices with supplemental information.

I have included an in-text citation every time I use words, ideas, or information from a source.

I have listed every source in a reference list at the end of my dissertation.

I have consistently followed the rules of my chosen citation style .

I have followed all formatting guidelines provided by my university.

Congratulations!

The end is in sight—your dissertation is nearly ready to submit! Make sure it's perfectly polished with the help of a Scribbr editor.

If you’re an educator, feel free to download and adapt these slides to teach your students about structuring a dissertation.

Open Google Slides Download PowerPoint

Is this article helpful?

Other students also liked.

• How to Write a Literature Review | Guide, Examples, & Templates
• Dissertation Table of Contents in Word | Instructions & Examples
• How to Choose a Dissertation Topic | 8 Steps to Follow

More interesting articles

• Checklist: Writing a dissertation
• Dissertation & Thesis Outline | Example & Free Templates
• Dissertation Binding and Printing | Options, Tips, & Comparison
• Example of a dissertation abstract
• Figure and Table Lists | Word Instructions, Template & Examples
• How to Write a Discussion Section | Tips & Examples
• How to Write a Dissertation or Thesis Proposal
• How to Write a Results Section | Tips & Examples
• How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Conclusion
• How to Write a Thesis or Dissertation Introduction
• How to Write an Abstract | Steps & Examples
• How to Write Recommendations in Research | Examples & Tips
• List of Abbreviations | Example, Template & Best Practices
• Operationalization | A Guide with Examples, Pros & Cons
• Prize-Winning Thesis and Dissertation Examples
• Purpose and structure of an advisory report
• Relevance of Your Dissertation Topic | Criteria & Tips
• Research Paper Appendix | Example & Templates
• Shorten your abstract or summary
• Theoretical Framework Example for a Thesis or Dissertation
• Thesis & Dissertation Acknowledgements | Tips & Examples
• Thesis & Dissertation Database Examples
• Thesis & Dissertation Title Page | Free Templates & Examples
• What is a Dissertation Preface? | Definition & Examples
• What is a Glossary? | Definition, Templates, & Examples
• What Is a Research Methodology? | Steps & Tips
• What Is a Theoretical Framework? | Guide to Organizing
• What Is a Thesis? | Ultimate Guide & Examples

What is your plagiarism score?

• COVID-19 Resources

Nursing programs

• Allied Health Programs
• Healthcare Management

Continuing Education

Certificate.

• Certified Nursing Assistant
• Certified Medication Aide
• Nurse Educator, PMC
• Nurse Executive, PMC
• Nurse Informatics, PMC
• Care Coordinator, PMC
• Traditional BSN
• Accelerated BSN
• RN to MSN Nurse Educator
• RN to MSN Nurse Executive
• RN to MSN Nursing Informatics
• RN to MSN Care Coordinator
• MSN Nurse Educator
• MSN Nurse Executive
• MSN Nursing Informatics
• MSN Care Coordinator
• BSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner
• BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• BSN to DNP - Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
• APRN to DNP
• MSN/MHP to DNP - Public Health Policy
• Pharmacy Technician
• Sterile Processing Technician
• Cardiovascular Sonography
• Multispecialty Sonography
• Physical Therapist Assistant
• Radiologic Technology
• Respiratory Care
• Surgical Technology
• Diagnostic Medical Sonography
• Imaging Sciences
• Respiratory Therapy, RRT to BSRT
• Respiratory Therapy, Dual Degree AS+BS
• Occupational Therapy
• Leadership in Healthcare Organizations Post-Doctoral
• Public Health Policy Post-Doctoral Certificate
• MBA In Healthcare
• Education & Leadership in Healthcare
• Public Health Policy
• Continuing Education Courses
• Continuing Education Events
• Continuing Education FAQ
• Professional Development Resources and Links
• Basic Life Support
• Advanced Life Support
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support
• Neonatal Resuscitation
• Family and Friends CPR
• Certified Nursing Assistant Refresher
• Medication Aide Refresher
• LPN Refresher
• RN Refresher
• Computed Tomography
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Mammography

Get started

• Request Info
• Visit Campus

Admission For

• First-Time Freshmen
• Transfer Students
• Graduate Students
• Admissions FAQs

Tuition & Financial Aid

• Financial Aid
• Scholarships
• Federal Work Study
• Net Price Calculator
• Cost of Attendance
• Federal Direct Loans
• Health Professions Loans
• Private Education Loans
• '24-'25 FAFSA Changes
• Contact Financial Aid Advisors
• Tuition by Program & Degree
• Tuition & Fees
• Partner Discounts

Student life

Get started.

• Explore Campus Life
• New Students
• Student Housing
• Program Handbooks
• Inclusion at NMC
• Academic Calendar
• Academic Services
• John Moritz Library
• Academic Travel
• Student Engagement & Support
• Campus Health
• Campus Safety
• Educated Citizen
• Accreditation & Affiliations
• Institutional Effectiveness
• Meet the President
• Executive Team
• Board of Directors
• Faculty & Staff
• Alumni Association
• Policies & Procedures
• Resource Center
• Consumer Information Directory

Why NMC's Online Doctorate Has No Dissertation

Projects are inspiring new program implementation and influencing policy and practice changes in healthcare and academic settings. 

If you’ve started researching online doctoral programs, you’ve probably discovered that some colleges require a scholarly research project instead of the traditional doctoral dissertation.

The doctoral dissertation has been a common requirement of a doctoral program. But more colleges and universities are allowing students to conduct translational research through a doctoral project.

These projects allow doctoral students to conduct research that has a narrower focus, solves a challenge or problem and can be implemented in a professional setting.

NMC is committed to teaching students to become change agents in healthcare through practice-based doctoral programs. Therefore, NMC’s online doctorates have adopted the doctoral scholarly project instead of the dissertation.

Discover what doctoral degrees are offered at NMC, the difference between a dissertation and a doctoral scholarly project, the benefits of a scholarly project and how to apply to a doctoral program.

Healthcare Doctorates at NMC

NMC offers online doctorate programs for those interested in advancing their career in healthcare.

Students in the Doctor of Education (EdD) and the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are learning to be leaders in their disciplines and organizations.

Doctoral programs at NMC are viewed as practice doctorates, which includes extensive coursework and a culminating scholarly project. 

With a Doctor of Education in healthcare , you’ll be able to develop effective management solutions for various settings. 

“An EdD provides a competitive advantage in attaining leadership roles in healthcare, community-based and private organizations, and education,” said Dr. Alice Kindschuh, director of doctoral studies at Nebraska Methodist College (NMC).

“It also demonstrates a commitment to your profession to employers and strengthens your skill-set as an innovative change agent.”

You can choose to study education and leadership to become a college or university professor, researcher, program director or administrator. A doctorate in public health policy will allow you to work as a public health consultant, health policy advisor, health and safety engineer, public health program specialist or an executive director of a public health non-profit.

NMC’s education doctorate program has two tracks:

• Education and Leadership in Healthcare

A Doctor of Nursing Practice allows you to study advanced nursing practices and build leadership skills. You can choose whether to become a family nurse practitioner, an adult gerontology clinical nurse specialist or nurse practitioner, work in public health policy or earn your terminal degree.

“NMC’s DNP program should be your first choice because we have expert faculty who care about you as a person and student, and encourage communication and community while you are in the program,” said Tara Whitmire, BSN-DNP Director. “Our program prepares you to be an autonomous advanced practice nurse.”

NMC’s nursing doctorate program offers five tracks:

Dissertation vs. Scholarly Doctoral Project

Many students are unfamiliar with a doctoral scholarly project and how it differs from a more traditional doctoral dissertation.

The difference between a dissertation and a scholarly project is the type of research being conducted.

While a dissertation is original research with a goal to generate new knowledge, the doctoral scholarly project is translational research, which ‘translates’ the research into practice through quality improvement or evidence-based practice initiatives.

According to Online EdD Programs , the scholarly project is a recent and innovative development in EdD programs. It’s only offered by a relatively small number of programs.

The doctoral scholarly project requires research similar in rigor to the traditional dissertation. 

The Benefits of a Doctoral Scholarly Project

The doctoral scholarly project experience provides students with an opportunity to serve as change agents through project completion. 

The project process allows students to identify a gap or problem in practice. They review resources and research regarding best practices related to the issue. Students then implement evidence-based change to address the issue and evaluate the effectiveness of the change.

Projects are diverse and can include program implementation, policy change, practice change and many others. The capstone experience and doctoral programs at NMC are forming connections of professionals across diverse settings nationwide.

Upon project completion, students disseminate the project through a formal presentation or publication. Ideally, change initiated from the scholarly projects should be sustained and duplicated to facilitate continuous quality improvement and best practices.

Faculty support and guidance during the research process is a priority at NMC. The faculty-to-student ratio for the scholarly project is one faculty member to every four to five students. The same faculty member stays with the student throughout the entire 13 months of the project, from concept to dissemination.

The project is reviewed by a doctoral committee, NMC’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) and an outside organization, if applicable. The review ensures projects are designed to meet the rigor and ethical standards for a doctoral project.

Student Perspective of the Doctoral Scholarly Project vs. a Dissertation

NMC’s doctoral students say the capstone project is one of their biggest accomplishments.

“By attending NMC, I have accomplished my intended goal of becoming a more rounded educator and future leader within higher education and healthcare settings. I have a much better understanding of how to conduct original research and translational research to improve practices in both areas,” said Josey Harris, who received her EdD in 2022.

How to Apply to Get Your EdD or DNP

NMC’s EdD and DNP programs are 100% online, which allows you to get a professional education on a convenient schedule and balance coursework with a full-time job.

Students can choose full- or part-time plans of study to best fit their lives.

A full-time student in the EdD program can graduate in 24 months and a part-time student can graduate in 36-months.

The online application process for the EdD program takes about 10 minutes.

A full-time student in the DNP program can graduate in 36 months. A part-time student can graduate in four to five years. 

You can find the online application for your desired nursing program on the nursing doctorate program page .

After submitting your application, complete a written statement, fill out a program/career awareness questionnaire and submit your resume. Your official college transcripts can be sent to [email protected].

Visit the program webpage to review specific application requirements for your program of interest.

You can explore graduate school financial aid opportunities such as employer tuition assistance, scholarships, work study and loans.

If you have questions, contact our admissions team at (402) 354-7200 or [email protected] to learn more.

About the Author

Kari wade, edd, msn, rn, sign up so you don't miss a thing., follow us on:, featured blog articles, 7 reasons why now is the time to get your msn, choosing the right msn program to advance your nursing career, earn a doctorate online with no dissertation, healthcare degree programs.

• Nursing Programs
• Professional Development
• Find Your Program
• Campus Visit
• Financial Aid Portal
• Accreditation
• Accessibility
• © 2024 Nebraska Methodist College, an affiliate of Methodist Health System
• Marketing Requests
• Complaint Form
• Terms of Use

10 Best Online DBA Degrees with No Dissertation Programs

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: February 23, 2024 , Reading time: 29 minutes

Share this on:

Find your perfect college degree

In this article, we will be covering...

The vast and diverse world of business presents a wealth of opportunities to students pursuing a career in this exciting and lucrative field. According to BLS, the employment trend in business and financial occupations is projected to rise by 4% between 2022 to 2032 . This can give way to a tremendous increase in new jobs over the decade, amounting to 911,400.

For Master’s in Business Administration holders seeking credential enhancement and career advancement, earning a Doctor of Business Administration is the way to go! This terminal program allows one to focus on a specific problem in business and apply their research skills to solve it.

This business administration program can set up experienced professionals in the field of business, allowing them to demonstrate their knowledge and skills and eventually apply them in real-world settings. Fortunately, many universities and colleges offer a doctor of business administration program online.

Working professionals will be able to juggle their personal and professional responsibilities without compromising one over the other.

Check this out:

• The Best Online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Degrees
• The Best Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Online Graduate Schools
• The Best Ph.D. in Accounting Online Programs

Quick audio summary:

These online doctoral degree programs equip students with effective skills and strategies that have real-world applications. An online doctor of business administration degree helps students bolster credibility, expand career opportunities, and earn higher salaries in management and leadership roles.

Common Courses in DBA Programs

The curriculums of various online doctorate programs are typically designed by universities according to the learning outcomes that they have predetermined, along with the expertise of their faculty. These doctoral degree programs may, in turn, have their own sub-specializations, such as human resource management, healthcare management, or project management. These contribute to the variance in courses that are offered and the number of credit hours in that degree.

There are, however, a number of standard courses found across all these business administration programs. These may differ in their name, but they generally teach the same content/theme. Let’s look at some of them.

Research Design

As the next natural step after identifying a problem, a significant amount of effort is spent on crafting the proper research design to ensure that the needed data is gathered and that the data-gathering process avoids errors and takes inherent shortcomings into account.

DBA curriculums will almost always have a separate course dedicated to research design, as this is a skill set that has applicability that lasts long after a student earns their degree.

Quantitative and/or Qualitative Research

With the final research-based output in mind, some Universities may offer special separate courses on both Quantitative and Qualitative Research. While both are valid lines of inquiry that students can pursue (although quantitative research remains the more popular method by far across disciplines), they are different enough to warrant being treated separately.

Contemporary Global Issues/Current Topics

Universities may or may not subdivide these into courses that are more focused on specific topics, but most online doctorate degree programs will typically have a course on relevant global issues or current trends in the industry. This ensures that students get a more comprehensive grounding, as they may not necessarily be up to speed on all relevant aspects.

Organizational Behavior

This course forms part of the fundamental courses of most doctorate degree programs. As business professionals, it is essential to have an understanding of human behavior as it relates to the dynamics present within the organization’s structure.

Ethics in Business & Management

The curriculum design of some universities may place heavier emphasis on this course than others, but it is a matter of course that businesses and organizations have to adhere to standards of ethics and integrity in order to ensure success, not just for the sake of regulatory compliance.

Ethical standards come into play in many aspects of a business’s operations, from employee treatment to fair market practice to financial management. Like in other courses, this course often makes use of case studies and real-world insights.

Managing Innovation & Change

This course may have different names or a slightly different treatment, but most doctoral degree programs in business administration will feature this course. It is crucial for businesses to be able to anticipate changes and keep up with trends and innovations to maintain their edge, and it is important that business leaders be trained in this highly important skill set.

Business Strategy

Some DBA doctoral programs may also have a separate course on business strategy, often incorporating a component of actual practice/simulation within the context of business realities.

This course may also integrate the other crucial skill sets learned throughout the program. This helps refine the long-term strategic thinking and decision-making skillsets of students as business leaders.

Marketing Research

This course is a specialized research course focusing on consumer behavior and their response to trends, products, or services, often according to different classifying characteristics like age bracket. This is a crucial discipline that business leaders learn in order to better gauge the performance of their products and/or services, as well as help them anticipate trends and changes in consumer preferences.

Business Intelligence/Business Research

Business decisions are built on a foundation of data. This course discusses the principles related to data-driven business decision-making and introduces students to the various tools and techniques that aid in this regard.

Differences between a DBA and a Ph.D. in Business Administration

Let’s start with the similarities. A DBA and Ph.D. are both terminal degrees, which means they are the highest possible educational attainment that can be awarded in the field of business administration.

Being doctorate degrees, both also require some form of research-related/research-based work as part of their final output. However, a DBA is a terminal degree specific to business administration, while a Ph.D. will cut across disciplines and is a universal doctoral degree.

Another key difference between the two is in terms of the type of intellectual emphasis and/or learning outcome. DBAs are a professional terminal degree, and as a result, they tend to have a practice-focused curriculum that aims to produce highly skilled practitioner-scholars who bring advanced skillsets to their workplaces and industries.

A Ph.D. in business administration, meanwhile, has a primarily scholarly emphasis. This means that these degree programs aim for the production of new knowledge or the revisiting and updating of previous knowledge, all of which contribute to the overall body of knowledge and the theoretical basis upon which the discipline of business administration is founded.

PhDs, with their focus on scholarly research, tend to favor dissertations as their final requirement. Some DBAs also require dissertations, but with the practice-focused emphasis of DBA degrees, it’s not uncommon to have degrees that require capstone projects, i.e., applied research, as their final output, as this gives students an excellent avenue to put their coursework learnings into a practical research-based production, often called a problem-of-practice project.

With this difference in focus, graduates of DBA degree programs can have a variety of career paths they can take, as they invariably bring their new skillsets back to their industries. Graduates of Ph.D. programs also have this opportunity; however, given the scholarly focus of their degrees, a majority of them tend to go on to work in academia, taking up research and/or teaching roles.

Specializations in an Online Doctor of Business Administration Program

Earning an online DBA program requires careful consideration. Many universities offer specializations in their business administration doctoral degree programs. It is important that prospective students choose the right business administration degree that aligns with their goals and helps them succeed in their chosen fields.

Students who want to gain a solid understanding of the practical applications of a broad accounting perspective and technical accounting knowledge will want to choose the accounting specialization. It will help them explore relationships among business activities and performance and economic outcomes.

This specialization covers the analysis of advanced management and organization of business transactions, mostly related to assets, liabilities, and the results from business operations.

Entrepreneurship

Focused on entrepreneurship principles, this specialization may tackle entrepreneurship from startup to exit strategy to small business management. Students will be able to delve deep into advanced qualitative and quantitative research methods along with foundational applied research.

It often includes courses such as raising capital for business, strategy formulation, and strategic thinking. Graduates of this DBA program are expected to identify market opportunities, manage risks, pioneer innovations in the industry, raise capital, and so much more.

Designed to help students become well-rounded managers, just like conventional finance degree programs, this specialization equips them with an advanced level of financial and business knowledge. They will cover financial analysis, decision-making in finance, capital investment decisions, managing value creation, and managing for value creation, among others. They will also be able to explore essential theories like option pricing, hedging, and derivatives.

Healthcare Administration

More important than ever, healthcare administrators are integral in leaving a positive impact on healthcare organizations and communities they serve. The Healthcare Administration specialization in a DBA program helps students acquire strong management and business leadership skills to make sound decisions with regard to healthcare policy and economics.

Students are expected to develop a better understanding of the theoretical and research-based healthcare industry management issues.

Human Resource Management

Professionals in the human resource management field will want to assume critical seats at the executive table as strategic partners. Earning a DBA degree program specializing in human resource management can help them prepare for this leadership position by gaining ample theoretical knowledge, industry insights, and solid capabilities to lead, build, and empower a diverse workforce.

They will cover contemporary organizational issues, including succession planning, corporate social responsibility, management of external strategic partnerships, and more.

International Business

Another popular specialization in an online DBA program is international business. This particular concentration equips graduate students with the skills needed to lead the business world with integrity and excellence. It is designed to help students become global business leaders and change-makers.

They will typically tackle business subjects such as global trade, international business environment, global financial markets, market-based global operations, and international strategic management.

It is crucial to have a capable person leading the business in the right direction. DBA graduates who wish to brush up on their leadership skills amid the increasing advancements in technology and the rapid changes in the overall business landscape will want to take a specialization in leadership. Most leadership specializations cover various leadership principles and practices.

Students in this DBA program are expected to demonstrate an effective entrepreneurial and leadership mindset in the face of new ventures and innovative economic development.

Project Management

This specialization emphasizes the importance of proactive leaders that advance the organization’s strategic objectives. They are taught to study the processes for successfully managing a complex portfolio of projects and analyzing opportunities that contribute to improved portfolio performance.

Students are expected to learn project-based strategic leadership skills and organizational practices that support the vision and growth of a business organization.

Organizational Behavior is a DBA specialization that aims to understand individuals and organizations and their role in shaping the economic and social life of societies. Some of the subjects tackled in this concentration include organizational design, corporate governance, organizational identity, negotiation, leadership, teams, and institutional change, among others.

Information Systems Management

In this DBA specialization, students will acquire knowledge and skills that will improve their capabilities in managing information systems. They will be able to understand and apply information systems in various management scenarios. Students in this online DBA degree specialization are expected to help businesses by providing technological solutions and leveraging them to enhance an organization’s competitive position in the market.

Lucrative Career Paths to Pursue a Doctorate in Business Administration

Earning a doctor of business administration degree can do wonders for one’s career. They can enhance their professional credentials by acquiring marketable, high-level skills that are in demand in today’s employment landscape. For those looking for more opportunities to expand their current career and grow their compensation, the following careers are ideal choices.

Business Consultant

In the United States, management consultants receive more than $2 billion for their services . They are primarily responsible for solving clients’ problems and making recommendations based on the diagnosis. They often collect information on the clients’ business using various tools, including surveys, shadowing, interviews, and reading reports, among others.

As a business consultant, one needs to be knowledgeable about the many facets of the business and get insights into market trends and forecasts. They are known to be good at problem-solving, analytical thinking, and innovation, all of which are vital to increasing profitability and efficiency. At present, business consultants have a median pay of $93,000 annually .

Considered financial experts, economists study market activity to collect and analyze financial and socioeconomic data. They are responsible for advising businesses and other important organizations on economic decisions. They are also tasked to develop models for economic forecasting. Economists often work with a team of financial analysts to understand economic trends and help business leaders make better decisions and succeed in achieving their goals.

Economists are expected to have exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills. They must also employ logic and problem-solving acumen in order to be successful. Annually, economists receive a median pay of $113,940 .

Project Manager

Companies that aim to finish projects from beginning to end will want to hire someone who can oversee the whole thing and make an impact on the whole organization. Project managers fulfill this role. Their responsibilities include conceptualizing, planning, developing, and implementing projects. It is also part of their jobs to set deadlines and monitor the project’s progress.

To lead the project successfully, project managers must possess strong knowledge of the risk management process. They must have good leadership and management skills to thrive in this role. Project managers can expect a median pay of $95,370 per year .

Logistician

Tasked to analyze and oversee the global supply chain management and life cycle of assigned products in an organization, logisticians ensure the smooth process of the whole operation, from distribution to delivery. They are responsible for communicating with customers and ensuring their needs are met, along with the coordination and allocation of available materials, supplies, and finished products.

Successful logisticians are known for their extensive knowledge of supply chain management, namely acquisition and distribution. Every year, the median pay for logisticians is $77,520 .

Organizational Development Manager

Often acting as a liaison and advisor to an organization’s leadership, organizational development managers plan, develop, and implement programs that help train and develop employees. They spearhead the needs assessment for training and staff development to help advance effective employee performance that leads to the realization of company goals and objectives.

Organizational development managers must be excellent at written and oral communication. They must demonstrate effective management skills and multimedia expertise. The annual median salary of this job position is $120,000 .

Director of Human Resources

Every organization needs a solid human resources department. As the director of human resources, one will lead, plan, develop, and coordinate important policies and activities, ensuring the legal compliance of the organization’s talent strategy. They are expected to deal with the recruitment, interview, hiring, and training of the new HR department staff and organize or facilitate human resource development programs.

As human resources directors, they need to have excellent communication, organizational, and time management skills. This job position can provide a median salary of $130,000 annually .

Government Program Manager

The primary role of a government program manager is to coordinate multiple government projects to ensure that all goals are aligned. Part of their tasks include the creation and management of long-term goals, budget development, and team management. At times, government project managers must also identify solutions to challenges when necessary.

Project management specialists can receive $101,610 annually for their median pay , according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Nonprofit Executive Director

Chief executive officers often deal with the creation of business plans, improving performance, and overseeing the day-to-day activities of an organization. As a non-profit executive director, one is expected to do the same thing. However, they must be guided by the goal of setting the nonprofit organization apart from the competition. They are also likely to develop and implement consistent inventory and cost accounting procedures.

Non-profit executive directors must employ multi-tasking, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Their median annual salary is $100,090 every year .

Strategic Planner

Strategic planners are integral to the overall business strategy as they often develop strategic plans and asses the company’s performance. Their primary responsibility is to conduct research and analyze data that can help them make informed business decisions. They need to help shape the company’s direction and reach the set objectives.

The skills needed for strategic planners to succeed include understanding market research and data analysis, business process analysis, strategic thinking abilities, and organizational and leadership skills.

Market Research Analyst

To identify new markets and sales opportunities, market research analysts must be experts at researching, compiling, and analyzing product and market conditions information. They often make recommendations related to their findings and deliver reports and presentations to the executive management.

As a market research analyst, one is expected to have excellent organizational and communication skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, their median pay annually amounts to $68,230 .

10 Top Online DBA Programs that Do Not Require Dissertation

Bellevue university.

Doctor of Business Administration

The doctor of administration degree offered by Bellevue University is designed to be completed in three years, with built-in two-week breaks. This is possible if one transfers their MBA credits and finishes the courses with satisfactory grades.

This program helps graduate students in solving current problems in the business industry. They will be well-equipped to lead in top executive positions by addressing the complex business landscape with the use of their vision, knowledge, and clarity. It is also one of the online DBA programs that do not require a dissertation. Instead, they are tasked to complete a research-based doctoral project that prepares them to be experts and thought leaders.

Plus, the online format of the program allows working business professionals to complete their doctoral degrees in a reasonable amount of time. Students are not required to render on-campus residency.

Graduates become equipped to lead organizations effectively through communicating advanced business analyses and scholarly thinking. The program curriculum has a total of 91 credit hours.

Franklin University

Another DBA program that is available 100% online is offered at Franklin University. This program helps students prepare for managing corporate-wide business initiatives for competitive advantage and profitability. They are taught to keep business administration leadership practices in mind and apply them in the real world.

The program requires the completion of 58 credit hours, which is possible to accomplish in as few as three years. Students are allowed to transfer as many as 24 credit hours of previously earned credits. Some of the courses covered in the program include Organizational Leadership, Organizational Performance Analysis, Ethics, and Social Responsibility, Change Management and Organizational Development, and Strategic Thinking, Decision Making, and Innovation, among others.

These DBA online programs can also be customized with a variety of electives.

Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University offers a Doctor of Business Administration degree program to help students rise up to the challenges faced by the global workforce. This program has a unique alternative path for those who were unable to complete their degree for various reasons. They are taught key strategies for advanced change management and complex business problems through the use of Devoe School of Business problem-based learning model.

Students can enjoy a low-cost DBA program with three specialization options, including healthcare administration, management, and information systems. This program has a fast-paced option that allows students to complete the program in as few as 22 months.

Students are expected to create solutions to complex business problems. Some of the courses covered in the program include Virtuous Marketing, Writing for Business Practitioners, and Applied Doctoral Program Evaluation and Assessment, among others.

It is important for students to complete the required credit hours with a minimum GPA of 3.25. They will need to complete the applied doctoral project in order to earn the degree.

Capella University

Students who want to advance as business leaders may want to consider earning a Doctor of Business Administration degree at Capella University. This program equips students with practical tools to reach the goals of the business.

The program has several specializations to help one build the skills needed to become a leader, consultant, or educator. The three specialization options are General Management, Organizational Leadership and Development, and Strategy and Innovation.

Instead of a dissertation, students are required to complete a capstone doctoral research project. It gives emphasis to applied research to help solve real-world problems within the organization. Students can also choose between two learning formats, namely GuidedPath for a flexible yet structured approach or FlexPath for a self-paced format.

Thomas Edison State University

The online doctorate degree program in business administration offered at Thomas Edison State University has several available areas of study for graduate students to choose from, including Organizational Leadership and Human Resource Management. This business administration online program is designed to help business students and professionals grow in their careers as executive leaders, educators, and consultants.

This affordable online DBA program has a unique curriculum design composed of unique content domains, namely:

• critical thought and action,
• integrated topics in business and management,
• teaching and consultative professional practice

Students can expect a personalized instructional delivery within a full-distance learning environment.

At the end of the business administration online program, students must be able to integrate financial, operational, and cultural data analysis in organizational strategic planning and management. They must earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.

Walden University

Walden University offers an online doctorate in business administration degree program that offers students a wide range of 11 specialization areas, designed to give experienced business professionals and academics a good venue to gain crucial and highly sought-after skills in a flexible format that adapts to their prior commitments.

The program is Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs-recognized and has a generous maximum time limit of 8 years. Students can likewise transfer in up to 17 previously earned credits. For their final requirement, students should complete a capstone project.

Wilmington University

Wilmington University’s online Doctor of Business Administration degree program is designed for managers, leaders, consultants, and those in educator roles, increasing their skillsets and capacities in preparing them to become critical thought leaders.

The program is accredited by the IACBE (International Accreditation Council for Business Education) and contains a total of 54 credit hours. The degree program coursework has a 2½-year completion timeframe, and there is a projected additional time of 1-2 years to complete the final requirement, which can either be a doctoral dissertation or a research project.

Likewise, the program design allows students to complete the program at their own pace but, at the same time, fosters a high degree of interaction and participation.

Trevecca Nazarene University

Trevecca Nazarene University offers its Doctor of Business Administration degree program in an online format. The degree is designed to equip students to thrive in corporate or academic settings, giving them skillsets that can also be applicable in teaching and consultant roles.

The degree program’s coursework can be completed within 32 months, and there are also no residency requirements. Students are grouped into cohorts, but class sizes are kept small, pegged at a maximum of around 19 students per class. As part of the final requirements, students are given a choice of completing either a Doctoral Dissertation or an Applied Doctoral Project.

University of the Incarnate Word

The University of the Incarnate Word offers its Doctor of Business Administration in a blended format combining online and in-person classes, although students can also opt to complete the program entirely online.

The degree program has a total of 45 credit hours, and each semester is 16 weeks long. Some of us who’ve earned a business-related Master’s Degree before may have run into time crunch issues, so students will welcome the generous 10-year maximum completion limit for this degree program, plenty of time to work on their final requirements, which takes the form of either peer-reviewed publications, conference presentation, or work-based project.

Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Doctor of Business Administration – Dissertation OR Work Project

Oklahoma Wesleyan University offers a DBA degree program that prepares students to become skilled scholar-practitioners who can contribute meaningfully in a variety of settings, be it the classroom or the board room.

The OKWU Doctor of Business Administration degree program contains a total of 56 credit hours, and classes are arranged sequentially. Students take one class at a time, with each class lasting eight weeks. This way, the whole program can be finished within three years.

Likewise, the required separate residency time in other degree programs is already integrated directly into the coursework flow. Students can also transfer up to 15 credits upon enrollment into the program. Lastly, as part of the final requirements, students can choose between completing a Doctoral Dissertation or a Work Project.

Grants & Scholarships

Universities will typically have a set of grants and scholarships that can be availed by students. Unlike loans, these do not have any attached expectation of being repaid; however, there can be other things expected of students, such as maintaining a grading standard in the case of scholarships, aside from the grade standards set by the degree program.

Scholarships also tend to be quite selective, and scholarship funds will have their target sectors and corresponding criteria, such as financial needs, based on socioeconomic standing.

Federal aid

Most degree programs offered by reputable universities will invariably qualify for federal financial aid. Along with undergraduate students, federal aid is available for graduate students as well. Some other forms of financial aid, such as Pell grants, are also accessed through the FAFSA.

The abiding message that gets repeated every year is for students to put in the time to fill out the paperwork and apply, as students miss out on a significant amount of college aid because they do not apply. 

Special discounts

Some universities offer special tuition discounts to students who belong to a certain sector. The most common of these are military discounts that are often given to members of the armed forces—either active duty or veterans—and even their family members. Rates vary, but some universities can give up to 10% off for some items like cost per credit hour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the timeline for earning an online doctor of business administration degree program.

An online Doctor of Business Administration program typically requires the completion of 54 to 60 credits. The program duration will depend primarily on whether the DBA students are earning the degree full-time or part-time.

For full-time students, it is possible to complete the program in three to five years. Some online Doctor of Business Administration programs may offer generous transfer credits policies and accelerated degree programs, which can significantly cut down the length of time it needs to complete online DBA programs.

Other schools offer multiple start terms, so it can also affect the time it takes for one to earn their online DBA degree program.

How much does an Online Doctor of Business Administration degree cost?

There is a degree of variance between universities in terms of overall cost due to a number of factors. Some degree programs require fewer credit hours in their curriculum than others.

Some universities may provide books and other course material for free, while students may have to purchase their own with others. Universities may also have differentiated in-state and out-of-state tuition rates, with the latter tending to be higher. Still, some universities may be in cities or states that have a higher overall cost of living, and that will invariably show up in their tuition rates.

A good starting point to get an estimate, meanwhile, would be to use costs per credit hour multiplied by the number of credits in a given course. Online DBA programs have a ballpark range of $600-$1,000 per credit hour and typically have a little more or less than 60 credit hours in total.

Other costs, such as textbooks and technology fees, are then added on, but it’s not unusual for DBA online doctoral degree programs to run into several tens of thousands of dollars for the total costs for the 2-3 years that they last.

Of course, like any graduate degree, there are a number of options students can avail of in order to help them finance their education, aside from the standard financial loans. Here are some of the typical financial aid options that are available.

Who is the DBA program for?

Designed for senior executives and other top business professionals, a DBA program is ideal for those who want to enrich their track record in management and leadership roles. This program is a good choice for senior managers who seek to acquire insights and expertise that will advance their senior roles. This program can also help them develop new business models and strategies through utilizing research and analysis.

What are some common requirements to get into online DBA programs?

Universities will have slight differences in their procedures when reading the fine print, but DBA degree programs will have a standard set of requirements that are also in typical graduate degrees. Standard GPA cutoffs are most often observed, typically around the 3.0 mark. Some universities also require GRE/GMAT/MAT scores, although some waive this requirement or mark them as optional.

Universities will also need proof of having earned the required previous education, i.e., a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree, and official transcripts will be required. More importantly, universities look for a form of quality assurance from applicants, and they would often require/prefer that the previous degrees be awarded by colleges/universities that have regional accreditation.

As an added quality assurance requirement of student applicants, universities often require them to have character references, often as letters of recommendation. Being a terminal degree, there is a degree of selectiveness.

Universities would prefer students who are intellectually/mentally ready for the coming coursework, and they would screen for this using personal essays at the minimum, complemented by subsequent interviews with faculty members.

What are the requirements to successfully earn the Doctor of Business Administration program?

Most online DBA programs have a rigorous curriculum that contains major courses, electives, and research core courses. Most DBA programs require 60 credits, more or less.

While it is typically required to complete the doctoral dissertation process to earn the DBA degree, some programs have alternatives to dissertations. DBA graduates must meet the requirements for graduation, often encompassing a doctoral capstone project or research project.

What are the benefits of completing a web-based doctorate program?

As is the case with DBA doctoral programs, there can be significant associated costs, but there are certainly benefits to pursuing this degree, aligning with everyone’s overall goal of not stagnating.

Being a terminal degree, the title of Doctor of Business Management represents a significant peak of professional achievement. It also implies that the degree holder has substantial experience under their belt within the industry: as with other professional terminal degrees, it dramatically helps if students have a reservoir of experience and insight that they can draw on to get a more meaningful learning experience out of their coursework.

Earning a doctorate degree also opens the door to other opportunities both within a certain industry or in a related field; graduates can add to their expertise and move up to more challenging responsibilities and positions, launch a career as industry consultants, or even take up teaching careers for some.

Meanwhile, online learning may have its tradeoffs, such as losing the unique interactions and overall learning atmosphere that comes with face-to-face classes, but it certainly has its benefits, particularly to typical students of Doctor of Business Administration degrees who are most often busy working professionals.

Online degree programs are specifically tailored to fit their prior professional commitments. These degree programs may follow self-paced or asynchronous models, which means students retain their flexibility by letting them access coursework at their most convenient time.

Some doctor of business administration degree programs may also follow a cohort model, which means they still get to build meaningful partnerships with other students in their cohort, partnerships that they can readily transfer into their professional sphere, as they often come from within the same industry.

No need to worry about educational quality either when it comes to online learning. Online learning may still have some connotations of being of less quality, but they are often held by universities to the same standard as they do with their traditional degree programs.

Programs that have both a traditional and an online delivery format within the same university will invariably follow the same curriculum design, have the same coursework, and be taught by the same faculty.

Key Takeaways

The DBA is a practice-focused degree and is aimed at producing graduates who are business leaders with advanced skill sets. The Ph.D. in Business Administration, meanwhile, is a scholarly-focused degree and produces graduates who work on the theoretical basis of the business management discipline.

DBA programs are often designed with specialization areas, containing specialized courses that cater to student’s specific areas of interest or overall career plans. 

Degrees that do not require dissertation research as their final requirement require a capstone project that integrates practice-based applied research. This serves as the first venue for students to put their learning into practice.

Related Posts

We’re certain of one thing—your search for more information on picking the best graduate degree or school landed you here. Let our experts help guide your through the decision making process with thoughtful content written by experts.

Deconstructing Doctoral Discourses pp 73–97 Cite as

Proven Best Practices in Guiding Non-traditional Dissertation Students to Degree Conferral in the United States

• Gina Peyton 10 ,
• David Brian Ross 10 ,
• Vanaja Nethi 10 ,
• Melissa Tara Sasso 10 &
• Lucas A. DeWitt 11  
• First Online: 01 January 2023

326 Accesses

Part of the book series: Palgrave Studies in Education Research Methods ((PSERM))

Non-traditional doctoral students are employed in their specialised fields while completing their terminal degree to further their professional endeavours. Generally, these professionals work full-time and have family obligations, and some are married with variously aged children. They encounter heart-breaking situations with ageing parents as well as their own health issues. These doctoral students need just as much guidance and mentoring as traditional students in their journeys. This chapter addresses the dissertation chair–student relationship and assesses the practices, techniques and outcomes of that relationship. In addition, memoirs from recent doctoral graduates are included to provide insight, experiences and examples to aid doctoral students. Furthermore, recommendations of best practices from dissertation chairs are included to offer support and suggestions on guiding students through their doctoral adventure.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution .

Buying options

• Available as PDF
• Read on any device
• Instant download
• Own it forever
• Available as EPUB and PDF
• Compact, lightweight edition
• Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
• Free shipping worldwide - see info
• Durable hardcover edition

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Purchases are for personal use only

Adams, R. V., & Blair, E. (2019). Impact of time management behaviors on undergraduate engineering students’ performance. Sage Open, 9 (1), 1. https://doi.org/10.1177/2158244018824506

Article   Google Scholar  

Aeon, B., Faber, A., & Panaccio, A. (2021). Does time management work? A meta-analysis. PLoS One, 16 (1), e0245066. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0245066

Aitchison, C., Catterall, J., Ross, P., & Burgin, S. (2012). “Tough love and tears”: Learning doctoral writing in the sciences. Higher Education Research & Development, 31 (4), 435–447. https://doi.org/10.1080/07294360.2011.559195

Alani, F., Khan, F. R., & Hawas, A. (2020). Do time management factors impede students’ academic achievement? A case-study. Humanities & Social Sciences Review, 8 (4), 201–212. https://doi.org/10.18510/hssr.2020.8421

Bagaka, J. G., Badillo, N., Bransteter, I., & Rispinto, S. (2015). Exploring student success in a doctoral program: The power of mentorship and research engagement. International Journal of Doctoral Studies, 10 , 323–342. http://ijds.org/Volume10/IJDSv10p323-342Bagaka1713.pdf

Baumann, N. A. (2017). The importance of effective communication: Some food for thought. The Journal of Applied Laboratory Medicine, 1 (4), 460–461. https://academic.oup.com/jalm/article/1/4/460/5587437

Berry, S. (2017). Student support networks in online doctoral programs: Exploring nested communities. International Journal of Doctoral Studies, 12 , 33–48. http://www.informingscience.org/Publications/3676

Black, R. (2012). The dissertation marathon. Contemporary Issues in Education Research, 5 (2), 97–104.

Google Scholar  

Black, R. (2017). E-Mentoring the online doctoral student from the dissertation prospectus through dissertation completion [Doctoral dissertation, Walden University]. Walden University Archive. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1109&context=sm_pubs

Bondie, R. S., Dahnke, C., & Zusho, A. (2019). How does changing “one-size-fits-all” to differentiated instruction affect teaching? Review of Research in Education, 43 (1), 336–362. https://doi.org/10.3102/0091732X18821130

Brabazon, T. (2016). Winter is coming: Doctoral supervision in the neoliberal university. International Journal of Social Sciences and Educational Studies, 3 (1), 1.

Bradbury-Jones, C., Irvine, F., & Sambrook, S. (2007). Unity and detachment: A discourse analysis of doctoral supervision. International Journal of Qualitative Methods, 3 (3), 255–271. https://doi.org/10.1177/160940690700600406

Burrington, D., Madison, R. D., & Schmitt, A. (2020). Dissertation committee chairs’ current practices to support doctoral students in an online doctoral program. Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration, 23 (3), 1. https://www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla/fall233/burrington_madison_schmitt233.html

Cairney, P., & Kwiatkowski, R. (2017). How to communicate effectively with policymakers: Combine insights from psychology and policy studies. Palgrave Communications, 3 (37), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-017-0046-8

Carmichael, A. M., & Krueger, L. E. (2014). An examination of factors and attitudes that influence reporting fraudulent claims in an academic environment. Active Learning in Higher Education, 15 (2), 173–185.

Carmichael, A. M., & Krueger, L. E. (2019). Research highlights how easily, readily students fabricate excuses. Faculty Focus. . https://www.facultyfocus.com/articles/teaching-and-learning/research-highlights-how-easily-readily-students-fabricate-excuses-2/

Carter-Veale, W. Y., Tull, R. G., Rutledge, J. C., & Joseph, L. N. (2016). The dissertation house model: Doctoral student experiences coping and writing in a shared knowledge community. CBE Life Sciences Education, 15 (3), ar343. https://doi.org/10.1187/cbe.16-01-0081

Casey, G. E., Saclarides Evthokia, S., & Lubienski, S. T. (2018). A difference in priorities. Studies in Graduate and Postdoctoral Education, 9 (1), 38–57. https://www.proquest.com/central/docview/2039728854/4175EE398CF24DF6PQ/9?accountid=6579

Cavanaugh, A. J., & Song, L. (2014). Audio feedback versus written feedback: Instructors’ and students’ perspectives. Merlot Journal of Online Learning and Teaching, 10 (1), 122–138. https://jolt.merlot.org/vol10no1/cavanaugh_0314.pdf

Cross, T. M. (2014). The gritty: Grit and non-traditional doctoral student success. Journal of Educators Online, 11 (3), 1.

Cyril, A. V. (2015). The management and academic achievement of higher secondary students. Journal on School Educational Technology, 10 (3), 38–43. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1097402.pdf

Defazio, J., Jones, J., Tannant, F., & Hook, S. A. (2010). Academic literacy: The importance and impact of writing across the curriculum – a case study. Journal of Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, 10 (2), 34–47. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ890711.pdf

Eby, L. T., Allen, T. D., Hoffman, B. J., Baranik, L. E., Sauer, J. B., Baldwin, S., Morrison, M. A., Kinkade, K. M., Maher, C. P., Curtis, S., & Evans, S. C. (2013). An interdisciplinary meta-analysis of the potential antecedents, correlates, and consequences of protégé perceptions of mentoring. Psychological Bulletin, 139 (2), 441–476. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0029279

Estrada, M., Zhi, Q., Nwankwo, E., & Gershon, R. (2019). The influence of social supports on graduate student persistence in biomedical fields. CBE—Life Sciences . Education, 18 (3), 1. https://doi.org/10.1187/cbe.19-01-0029

Fedock, B. (2017). Online dissertation chairs’ perceptions on the role of reflective mentoring practices and changing student cross-cultural and generational worldviews. Sage Open, 7 (2), 1. https://doi.org/10.1177/2158244017705421

Ferrer de Valero, Y. (2001). Departmental factors affecting time-to-degree and completion rates of doctoral students at one land-grant research institution. The Journal of Higher Education, 72 (3), 341–367. https://www.jstor.org/stable/2649335

Ghiasvand, A. M., Naderi, M., Tafreshi, M. Z., Ahmadi, F., & Hosseini, M. (2017). Relationship between time management skills and anxiety and academic motivation of nursing students in Tehran. Electron Physician, 9 (1), 3678–3684. https://doi.org/10.19082/3678

Golann, J. W. (2015). The paradox of success at a no-excuses school. Sociology of Education, 88 (2), 103–119. https://doi.org/10.1177/0038040714567866 . https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4877134/

Grady, C. (2015). Institutional review boards: Purpose and challenges. Chest, 148 (5), 1148–1155. https://doi.org/10.1378/chest.15-0706

Hassel, S., & Ridout, N. (2018). An investigation of first-year students’ and lecturers’ expectations of university education. Frontiers in Psychology, 8 , 1. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.02218

Hill, L. H., & Conceição, S. C. O. (2019). Program and instructional strategies supportive of doctoral students’ degree completion. Sage Journals, 31 (1), 36–44. https://doi.org/10.1177/1045159519887529

Hineman, J. M., & Semich, G. (2017). Choosing a dissertation adviser: Challenges and strategies for doctoral students. Inquiries Journal, 9 (3), 1. http://www.inquiriesjournal.com/a?id=1588

Holley, K., & Caldwell, M. (2012). The challenges of designing and implementing a doctoral student mentoring program. Innovative Higher Education, 37 , 243–253.

Holmes, B. D., Robinson, L., & Seay, A. D. (2010). Getting to finished: Strategies to ensure completion of the doctoral dissertation. Contemporary Issues in Education Research, 3 (7), 1. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1072664.pdf

Jairam, D., & Kahl, D. H., Jr. (2012). Navigating the doctoral experience: The role of social support in successful degree completion. International Journal of Doctoral Studies, 7 , 311–329. https://doi.org/10.28945/1700

Johnson, C. (2015). Understanding doctoral success factors in online education programs . Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2359&context=dissertations

Jongman, M. (2017). The impact of social interdependence theory in supply chain management. Paper presented at the 3rd IBA bachelor thesis conference, Enschede, The Netherlands.

Keel, V. A., & Bearden, M. R. (2020). Increasing doctoral student completion rates within the College of Humanities and Sciences at Virginia Commonwealth University . Virginia Commonwealth University, VCU Scholars Compass. https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1000&context=edd_capstone

Lovitts, B. E. (2001). Leaving the ivory tower: The causes and consequences of departure from doctoral study . Rowan & Littlefield.

Margerum, L. A. (2014). Late completers: How and why non-traditional graduate students who exceed program timelines of 10 years ultimately complete the doctoral process [Doctoral dissertation, Andrews University]. Andrews University Archive. https://digitalcommons.andrews.edu/dissertations/557

Mazerolle, S., Bowman, T., & Klossner, J. (2015). An analysis of doctoral students’ perceptions of mentorship during their doctoral studies. Athletic Training Education Journal, 10 (3), 227–235.

Miller, A. (2013). Timely doctoral completion rates in five fields: A two-part study . Graduate Theses and Dissertations. University of South Florida, Scholar Commons. https://scholarcommons.usf.edu/etd/4827/

Muirhead, B., & Blum, K. D. (2006). Advising online dissertation students. Educational Technology & Society, 9 (1), 1–8.

Muirhead, B., Robinson, G., & Simon, M. (2005). Working as the chair – tips to train online doctoral students for the mountain climb. In K. Blum & B. Muirhead (Eds.), Conquering the mountain: Framework for successful chair advising of online dissertation students (pp. 10–17). International Journal of Instructional Technology & Distance Learning.

Mutisya, E. N., Dinga, J. N., & Kinai, T. K. (2019). Students’ perceptions of teacher support and academic motivation as predictors of academic engagement. International Journal of Applied Psychology, 9 (5), 128–134. https://doi.org/10.5923/j.ijap.20190905.02

Nova Southeastern University. (2020). Fact book. https://www.nova.edu/publications/factbook/2020/index.html

Nova Southeastern University. (2021). Graduate catalog and student handbook. https://education.nova.edu/students/current-students/fcescj-2020-2021-graduate-catalog.pdf

Paolini, A. (2015). Enhancing teaching effectiveness and student learning outcomes. The Journal of Effective Teaching, 15 (1), 20–33. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1060429.pdf

Parker, L. L. (2017). Competition and academic entitlement . Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=4512&context=dissertations

Peyton, G. L. (2015). Best practices for supporting faculty in teaching adult doctoral students. Academic Impressions . https://www.academicimpressions.com/blog/how-faculty-can-more-effectively-support-adult-doctoral-students/

Ramaswamy, N. (2018). Why is there more emphasis on teaching rather than learning in teaching-learning process? Financial Express. ProQuest One Academic.

Roberts, L. A., & Bandlow, R. (2018). The goldilocks phenomenon: Are we helping doctoral students too much, too little or just right? Journal of Higher Education Measurement, 32 (2), 62–80.

Roberts, L. A., Tinari, C. M., & Bandlow, R. (2019). An effective doctoral student mentor wears many hats and asks many questions. International Journal of Doctoral Studies, 14 , 133–159. https://doi.org/10.28945/4195

Robinson, E. M., & Tagher, C. G. (2017). The companion dissertation: Enriching the doctoral experience. Journal of Nursing Education, 56 (9), 564–566. https://doi.org/10.3928/01484834-20170817-10

Roig, M., & Caso, M. (2005). Lying and cheating: Fraudulent excuse making, cheating, and plagiarism. The Journal of Psychology, 139 (6), 485–494. https://doi.org/10.3200/JRLP.139.6.485-494

Rusbult, C., & Lange, P. (2008). Why we need interdependence theory. Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 2 (5), 2049–2070. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1751-9004.2008.00147.x

Sahito, A., & Vaisanen, P. (2017). Effect of time management on the job satisfaction and motivation of teacher educators: A narrative analysis. International Journal of Higher Education, 6 (2), 213–224. https://doi.org/10.5430/ijhe.v6n2p213

Sasso, M. T., & Ross, D. B. (2020). Academic entitlement and the K-20 System: The importance of implementing policies to better the education system. In J. O’Connor (Ed.), Strategic leadership in PK-12 settings (pp. 110–132). IGI Global.

Chapter   Google Scholar  

Stiles, B. L., Pan, M., LaBeff, E. E., & Wong, N. (2017). The role of academic entitlement in college cheating: A comparison between China and the United States (Vol. 1, p. 33). Research in Higher Education Journal . https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1178415

Stiles, B. L., Wong, N. C. W., & LaBeff, E. E. (2018). College cheating thirty years later: The role of academic entitlement. Deviant Behavior, 39 (7), 823–834. https://doi.org/10.1080/01639625.2017.1335520

Sverdlik, A., Hall, N. C., McAlpine, L., & Hubbard, K. (2018). The PhD experience: A review of the factors influencing doctoral students’ completion, achievement, and well-being. International Journal of Doctoral Studies, 13 , 361–388. https://doi.org/10.28945/4113

Triplett, V. (2016). In the age of “no-excuses” schools: A case for compassion and better social-emotional learning. EdSurge . https://www.edsurge.com/news/2016-07-13-in-the-age-of-no-excuses-schools-a-case-for-compassion-and-better-social-emotional-learning-strategies

United States Department of Health & Human Services. (1979). The Belmont report: Office of the Secretary. https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/regulations-and-policy/belmont-report/read-the-belmont-report/index.html

United States Department of Health & Human Services. (2021). Office for Human Research Protections. https://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/

van Rooij, E., Fokkens-Bruinsma, M., & Jansen, E. (2019). Factors that influence PhD candidates’ success: The importance of PhD project characteristics. Studies in Continuing Education, 43 (1), 48–67. https://doi.org/10.1080/0158037x.2019.1652158

Virtanen, V., & Taina, J. (2016). What disengages doctoral students in biological and environmental sciences from their doctoral studies? Studies in Continuing Education, 39 (1), 1–16. https://doi.org/10.1080/0158037X.2016.1250737

Young, S. N., Vanwye, W. R., Schafer, M. A., Robertson, T. A., & Poore, A. V. (2019). Factors affecting PhD student success. International Journal of Exercise Science, 12 (1), 34–45. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6355122/

Zhao, C., Golde, C., & McKormick, A. (2007). More than a signature: How adviser choicse and adviser behavior affect doctoral student satisfaction. Journal of Further and Higher Education, 31 (3), 263–281. https://doi.org/10.1080/03098770701424983

Download references

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

Nova Southeastern University, Davie, FL, USA

Gina Peyton, David Brian Ross, Vanaja Nethi & Melissa Tara Sasso

Buena Vista University, Storm Lake, IA, USA

Lucas A. DeWitt

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Gina Peyton .

Editor information

Editors and affiliations.

School of Education, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD, Australia

Deborah L. Mulligan

UniSQ College, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD, Australia

Patrick Alan Danaher

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 2022 The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG

About this chapter

Cite this chapter.

Peyton, G., Ross, D.B., Nethi, V., Sasso, M.T., DeWitt, L.A. (2022). Proven Best Practices in Guiding Non-traditional Dissertation Students to Degree Conferral in the United States. In: Mulligan, D.L., Ryan, N., Danaher, P.A. (eds) Deconstructing Doctoral Discourses. Palgrave Studies in Education Research Methods. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-11016-0_5

Download citation

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-11016-0_5

Published : 01 January 2023

Publisher Name : Palgrave Macmillan, Cham

Print ISBN : 978-3-031-11015-3

Online ISBN : 978-3-031-11016-0

eBook Packages : Education Education (R0)

Share this chapter

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

• Publish with us

Policies and ethics

• Find a journal
• Track your research

• About the Anthropology Department
• Welcome from the Department Head
• Location & Directions
• Department History
• Affiliations
• Undergraduate Programs
• Graduate Programs
• Certificates
• Anthropology Minor
• Minor in Museum Studies
• Undergraduate Research
• Research Centers & Labs
• Anthropology Research Collections
• Department of Anthropology Contact Info
• Faculty Resources
• Fieldwork Code of Conduct
• Useful Links
• Archaeological Diving
• Radiocarbon and Isotope Preparation Laboratory

Graduate Coursework

Guidelines for students in the phd program.

The Department of Anthropology revised its guidelines for PhD students in 2015. Those who entered the program  before  2015 should follow respective program guidelines below. All students who enter the program  after   2015 are expected to adhere to these guidelines:   2024 ANTH GRAD Handbook anthropology/_files/_documents/_graduate/2024-anth-handbook-diss-format-02.19.24.pdf

• Archaeology
• Biological Anthropology
• Cultural Anthropology
• Nautical Archaeology
• MASTER OF ARTS (THESIS OPTION) – FOR PHD STUDENTS ONLY
• MASTER OF ARTS (NON-THESIS OPTION) – FOR PHD STUDENTS ONLY

Work leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Anthropology is designed to give prospective candidates a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of their professional field and training in their methods of research. Students entering the Nautical Archaeology Program receive a PhD in Anthropology with additional specialized coursework and dissertation research in ship reconstruction, seafaring, and conservation.

Student’s Advisory Committee Upon admission to the PhD program the student will be assigned a provisional advisor. The advisor will be a faculty member whose research is related to the topics of interest identified by the student in his or her application materials, but may or may not continue as Advisory Committee Chair. Incoming students should consult with their provisional advisor before registering for classes regarding any background preparation they may need in preparation for the core courses. By the end of the second year, the student should select an Advisory Committee Chair and, in consultation with the chair, select the remainder of the Advisory Committee. The student’s Advisory Committee will consist of not fewer than four members of the Texas A&M graduate faculty representative of the student’s fields of study and research. The chair or co-chair must be from the student’s department. Two members should be from the department and one must be outside the department. The duties of the committee include the responsibility for the proposed degree program, the annual evaluation, the dissertation research proposal, the preliminary examination, the dissertation and its oral defense. An individual who is not a member of graduate faculty may be on the committee in name only. This person will not be listed nor sign any Office of Graduate and Professional Studies (OGAPS) paperwork. S/he will review a student’s work and advise within their expertise.

Degree Plan By the end of the fourth semester, a student must prepare a degree plan for approval by his or her advisory committee. The degree plan lists the courses that the student will take to satisfy the course requirements of the PhD degree. The degree plan may be modified later by the student with the approval of his or her advisory committee. Please refer to the   Office of Graduate and Professional Studies  website for proper procedure.

All degree plans must include the following: Residence: A PhD candidate must spend two academic years (one of these in continuous, full-time residence) in residence beyond the baccalaureate degree, or one year in residence beyond the masters degree.

Undergraduate Coursework Advanced undergraduate courses (300 or 400-level) are permitted on the degree plan. The exact number of credit hours is contingent on advisory committee approval. Other Course Exclusions: No more than 12 hours of ANTH 660 may be used. No credit hours of FREN 601 or GERM 603 may be used. No more than 3 hours of ENGL 697 may be used. No correspondence study may be used. No credit hours of extension course work may be used.

Transfer Credit A grade of B or higher is required. A student must be in a degree-seeking status at Texas A&M or the institution where courses were taken when the courses were completed. Courses previously used for another degree are not acceptable for degree plan credit. Course work in which no formal grades or letter grades are given is not acceptable.

Total Hours The degree plan must include 96 credit hours beyond the baccalaureate or 64 credit hours beyond the masters. International degrees will be assessed by Graduate Admissions. Some international MA programs do not translate as graduate level to Texas A&M and students who hold these will be required to follow a 96 hour degree plan.

Foreign Language Requirement The PhD foreign language requirement at Texas A&M University is a departmental option, to be administered and monitored by the individual departments. In the Department of Anthropology, the foreign language requirement is at the discretion of the advisory committee. The committee may require that the student demonstrate research proficiency in one or two foreign languages that are relevant to that student’s dissertation research.

A student may demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language by completing two years of college coursework in a language, taking a summer language immersion program, or completing a language exam. The fulfillment of the language requirements generally consists of a translation of a two to four pages foreign language text. Dictionaries are allowed. To the extent possible, language exams are administered by faculty members in the department who are proficient in that language. The individual administering the test will determine an appropriate amount of time for the translation. Typically, the test is scheduled for one hour or less.

Language courses do not count towards the credit hours needed for completion of the degree, and therefore cannot be added to a student’s degree plan.

Time Limit Students must complete all requirements within 10 years.

Continuous Enrollment Students who have completed all formal course work on their degree plan must be registered each   fall and spring   semester until they graduate. Usually, a student will register for 1 credit hour of ANTH 691 Research each semester while finishing the thesis. Students who fail to register for a semester will be blocked from registration until they have undergone a favorable recommendation from a departmental review committee, the endorsement of the department head, and the approval of the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies.

Annual Evaluation Each student will be evaluated by the faculty in that student’s area of study (nautical archaeology, physical anthropology, archaeology, and cultural anthropology/folklore)   each spring semester . The purpose of the evaluation will be to gauge the student’s academic progress and provide guidance for the following year and if the student should continue in the PhD program. The evaluation will be sent out each year on the listserv and each student is responsible for filling one out and submitting it to their faculty advisor/committee chair. Any student that does not turn in an evaluation by the stated deadline will have a registration block placed on their account. A student that has inadequate progress for two or more years may be dismissed from the program. Students not continuing in the PhD program may have the opportunity to meet the requirements for the MA degree as described in the appropriate section of this document.

Dissertation Proposal The research proposal is a description of the research which the student intends to undertake and which will be reported in a detailed, comprehensive fashion in the completed thesis or dissertation. It offers the student an opportunity to convince the chair and other members of the advisory committee of his/her ability to pursue the projected topic to a successful conclusion. Filing the proposal is one of the requirements for the admission to candidacy for the doctoral degree.

The proposal must be approved by the entire advisory committee. Committee members and the department head sign the Proposal Title Page, found on the   Proposal Approval Form . The proposal and signed title page are then submitted to OGAPS. The proposal must be approved by OGAPS   at least 14 weeks prior to graduation . The proposal must be approved by OGAPS   at least 15 working days prior to the final examination, the defense .

Preliminary Exam A preliminary examination is required. It is to be given no later than the end of the first semester after completion of course work and no earlier than a date at which the student is within approximately six credit hours of completion of the formal course work on the degree program (with the exception of courses 681, 684, 690, 691 and 692). The student must have an overall and degree plan >3.0 GPR at the time of the examination and must have met the Foreign Language Requirement. Prior to scheduling the preliminary examination, the committee chair will review with the student the eligibility criteria using the   Preliminary Examination Checklist . The schedule for the preliminary exam must be arranged with all committee members.

The preliminary examination for all PhD students will include both written and oral portions. Each member of the advisory committee is responsible for administering a written examination in his/her particular field. A member may choose to waive participation in this part of the examination. Two or more members may give a joint written exam. Each written exam must be completed and reported as satisfactory to the chair before the oral portion may be held. The exact format of the preliminary exam is determined by the student’s advisory committee.

Students in the Nautical Archaeology Program are required to take the written portion of their preliminary examination as closed book. Access to outside reference sources is not allowed. If a student’s committee wants to administer the exam otherwise, it is to be addressed and decided upon at a Nautical Archaeology Program faculty meeting. Students are required to be on campus for the oral portion of the preliminary exam.

If the preliminary examination is failed, there is no obligation for a re-examination. At their discretion, the advisory committee and OGAPS may allow one re-examination when adequate time has passed to allow the student to address inadequacies (normally six months).

The chair will report the results of the examination along with the checklist  Preliminary Examination Checklist   to OGAPS within 10 working days of the scheduled oral exam and at least 14 weeks prior to the date of the final examination, the dissertation defense.

All students must complete all requirements for the PhD within four years after completing their preliminary examination. Otherwise the student will be required to repeat the preliminary examination.

Candidacy To be admitted to candidacy, the student must have met the residency requirement, completed all formal course work listed on the degree plan, passed the preliminary examination, have an overall and degree plan 3.0 GPR, and filed a dissertation proposal with the OGAPS which has been approved by the student’s advisory committee.

Dissertation Defense A student must have been admitted to candidacy to take the final examination, the dissertation defense. The student must be registered at the time the final exam is administered. The dissertation must be in final form and ready for distribution to committee members. All members of the student’s advisory committee must have a copy of the dissertation before the defense can be scheduled. OGAPS must have approved the schedule of the final examination at least 10 working days prior to the exam, using the   Request of Final Examination .  The format of the dissertation must be acceptable to the   Thesis Office . The dissertation must be approved by all members of the student’s advisory committee and must represent the candidate’s ability to conduct original, independent research which represents an advance in the field and to communicate the results of that research.  The student shall present an oral presentation (open to the public), on the topic of the dissertation research. This presentation will generally be presented on the same day as the actual defense of the dissertation. A candidate for the PhD degree must defend the dissertation by deadline dates announced in the   OGAPS Calendar .

Award of PhD Degree The style and format of the dissertation must be approved by the library thesis clerk and the student must deposit two copies of the dissertation in the library before the degree can be awarded. The final copies of the dissertation must be deposited within one year of the dissertation defense.  Visit  Thesis and Dissertation Services   for more information.

The semester a student intends to graduate, an application for graduation must be submitted electronically to the   Office of the Registrar   by the deadline given on the   Academic Calendar .  There is also a graduation fee that must paid.  For more information about graduation, please visit   Texas A&M’s Graduation Website .

A student who applied for graduation and will not graduate at the intended date must file a   Graduation Cancellation Form   with OGAPS.

Click here to review the Anthropology programs guidelines for PhD students.

Guidelines for Students in the MS in Maritime Archaeology and Conservation Program

The Department of Anthropology guidelines for students in the MS in Maritime Archaeology and Conservation Program are   here .

Starting in the Fall Semester of 2015, the Department of Anthropology’s  Nautical Archaeology Program  is now offering a new Master of Science in Archaeology and Conservation. The degree program is designed to prepare students for employment in maritime museums, cultural resource management firms, (including companies working with the offshore oil industry), and federal, state, or similar government agencies.

Students in the MS program will benefit from the research opportunities and internships available through Texas A&M University’s   Center for Maritime Archaeology and Conservation (CMAC) , and the university-affiliated  Institute of Nautical Archaeology (INA) . The program is open to a limited number of students, selected on a competitive basis.

The curriculum is designed to allow students to complete the MS in Maritime Archaeology and Conservation in a two-year framework. All students are required to write a thesis in order to complete the degree, a thesis-based graduate degree being essential for many employment opportunities, and is also a prerequisite for being listed on the   Register of Professional Archaeologists (RPA) .

In addition to the below courses, all MS students must have competence in at least one foreign language used in research. This language should be one with significant scientific literature of relevance to the student’s research areas (e.g. French, German, Spanish, and Russian) or be a language the student will use in his or her field research.

Required Courses:

• ANTH 605 – Conservation of Archaeological Resources I
• ANTH 608 – Skills in Maritime Archaeology
• ANTH 611 – Introduction to Nautical Archaeology
• ANTH 615 – History of Wooden Shipbuilding
• ANTH 616 – Research and Reconstruction of Ships

Maritime Elective Courses:

• ANTH 602 – Archaeological Methods and Theory
• ANTH 603 – Seafaring Life and Maritime Communities
• ANTH 606 – Conservation of Archaeological Resources II
• ANTH 607 – Historical Archaeology
• ANTH 610 – Outfitting and Sailing the Wooden Ship 1400-1900
• ANTH 612 – Pre-Classical Seafaring
• ANTH 613 – Classical Seafaring
• ANTH 614 – Books and Treatises on Shipbuilding
• ANTH 617 – Conservation III
• ANTH 618 – Medieval Seafaring in the Mediterranean
• ANTH 628 – New World Seafaring
• ANTH 629 – Post Medieval Seafaring
• ANTH 633 – Deep-Submergence Archaeology
• ANTH 642 – Research Design in Anthropology
• ANTH 644 – Classical Archaeology
• ANTH 645 – Cultural Resource Management
• ANTH 685 – Directed Studies
• ANTH 689 – Special Topics

Master of Arts (Thesis Option) – for PhD students only

Applicants new to Texas A&M may   not   apply to this program. This degree is   only   available to current Texas A&M graduate students who are seeking an MA before continuing through the PhD program.

Work leading to the degree of Master of Arts (MA) in Anthropology is designed to give prospective candidates a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of their professional field and training in their methods of research. In addition to the general anthropology MA degree, the department offers a nautical archaeology area of specialization through the Nautical Archaeology Program which involves specialized coursework in ship construction and recording, seafaring, and conservation methods. The Department offers two MA degrees, the MA Thesis Option and the MA Non-Thesis Option. The Non-Thesis Option is available only to students in the Archaeology, Biological, and Cultural Programs.

Student’s Advisory Committee Upon admission to the MA program, the student will be assigned a provisional advisor. The advisor will be a faculty member whose research is related to the topics of interest identified by the student in his or her application materials, but may or may not continue as advisory committee chair. Incoming students should consult with their advisor before registering for classes regarding any background preparation they may need in preparation for the core courses. By the end of the first year, the student should select an advisory committee chair and, in consultation with the chair, select the remainder of the advisory committee. The student’s advisory committee will consist of not fewer than three members of the graduate faculty representative of the student’s fields of study and research. Two of the members should be faculty in the department and one must be from outside the department. The duties of the committee include the responsibility for the proposed degree program, thesis research proposal, the thesis and its oral defense.

Degree Plan A student must prepare a degree plan for approval by his or her advisory committee. The degree plan lists the courses that the student will take to satisfy the course requirements of the MA degree. This plan must be submitted to the Director of Graduate Studies   before   a student can register for the fourth semester. The degree plan may be modified later by the student with the approval of his or her Advisory Committee.

All degree plans must include the following:

Residence An MA student must spend one semester in full-time residence beyond the baccalaureate degree.

Archaeology, Biological, and Cultural Programs – Core Courses

• ANTH 601 – Biological Anthropology
• ANTH 604 – Cultural Methods and Theory

Students who have taken similar graduate level courses before entering Texas A&M may petition to bypass ANTH 601, ANTH 602, and ANTH 604. Petitions to bypass a course must be made in writing and must include a copy of the syllabus of the equivalent course. Faculty who teach the core course will review the petition and vote to accept or reject it.

Archaeology Program students must take ANTH 602, Archaeological Methods and Theory, at Texas A&M. There are   no exceptions   to this policy.

Anthropology Courses All students must take   at least   9 credit hours within anthropology. (This is   in addition   to the core courses   and   ANTH 691 Research.)

Quantitative Methods ALL students   must   take STAT 651, Statistics in Research, or an equivalent course. Any course that is not STAT 651 or ANTH 642, for example a graduate-level statistics course taken at another university, must have prior departmental approval before being placed on a student’s degree plan.

Outside Electives All students must take   at least   6 credit hours outside the Department of Anthropology in subjects related to their research interests. These include such courses as history, geography, geology, ecology, second foreign languages, and other areas of technical or theoretical specialization approved by the student’s advisory committee. Courses required to satisfy the minimum foreign language requirement and STAT 651 cannot be used to meet this requirement.

Nautical Archaeology Program – Core Courses (16 Credit Hours)

• ANTH 602 Archaeological Methods and Theory (or ANTH 604 Cultural Methods and Theory if ANTH 602 was taken elsewhere or as an undergrad)
• ANTH 605 Conservation of Archaeological Resources I
• ANTH 611 Nautical Archaeology
• ANTH 615 History of Shipbuilding Technology
• ANTH 616 Research and Reconstruction of Ships

Seminar Courses (12 credit hours) Students take 12 hours in Nautical Archaeology seminars.

All Programs Research Hours and Directed Studies No more than 12 hours may be used in any combination of the following categories: (This includes 684, 685, 690, 691, and 695 in all departments.) No more than 6 credit hours in the combination of 691 Research or 684 Internship may be used. No more than 8 credit hours of 685 Directed Studies may be used. No more than 3 hours of 690 Theory of Research may be used. No more than 3 hours of 695 Frontiers in Research may be used.

Undergraduate Courses No more than 9 hours of advanced undergraduate courses (300- or 400-level) may be used.

Other Course Exclusions No more than 2 hours of 681 Seminar may be used on a degree plan. No credit hours of FREN 601 or GERM 603 may be used. No more than 3 hours of ENGL 697 may be used. No correspondence study may be used. No credit hours for continuing education courses may be used. No credit hours of extension course work may be used. A course taken S/U may not be used on the degree plan. Exceptions: 681, 684, 690, 691, 692, 693, and 695.

Transfer Credit No more than 12 hours may be transferred from an accredited institution. A grade of B or higher is required. A student must be in a degree-seeking status at Texas A&M or the institution where courses were taken when the courses were completed. Courses previously used for another degree are not acceptable for degree plan credit.

Total Hours The degree plan must include   at least   30 credit hours.

Foreign Language Requirement MA students are expected to have competence in at least one foreign language. Normally that competence is obtained as an undergraduate student with four semesters of language study. Students entering the program without previous language training will be expected to obtain it during their graduate studies. The student’s advisory committee will determine the best way to meet these expectations.

Time Limit Students must complete all requirements within 7 years.

Continuous Enrollment Students who have completed all formal course work on their degree plan must be registered each   fall and spring semester   until they graduate. Usually, a student will register for 1 credit hour of ANTH 691 Research each semester while finishing the thesis. Students who fail to register for a semester will be blocked from registration until they have undergone a favorable recommendation from a departmental review committee, the endorsement of the department head, and the approval of the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies.

Thesis Proposal The research proposal is a description of the research which the student intends to undertake and which will be reported in a detailed, comprehensive fashion in the completed thesis or dissertation. It offers the student an opportunity to convince the chair and other members of the advisory committee of his/her ability to pursue the projected topic to a successful conclusion. Filing the proposal is one of the requirements for graduation with a Master of Arts Thesis Option.

The proposal must be approved by the entire advisory committee. Committee members, the student, and the department head sign the Proposal Title Page, found on the   Proposal Approval Form .

The proposal and signed title page are then submitted to OGAPS. The proposal must be approved by OGAPS   at least 14 weeks prior to graduation . The proposal must be approved by OGAPS   at least 15 working days prior to the final examination , the thesis defense.

Thesis Defense OGAPS must approve the   Request and Announcement of the Final Examination   10 business days   before the exam takes place. All members of the student’s advisory committee must have a copy of the thesis before the defense can be scheduled. For students who qualify under the rules of the university, the oral thesis defense may be waived at the discretion of the committee. The format of the thesis must be acceptable to the Thesis Office. The thesis must be approved by all members of the student’s advisory committee and must represent the candidate’s ability to conduct independent research and communicate the results of that research.

Award of MA Degree The semester a student intends to graduate, an application for graduation must be submitted electronically to the   Office of the Registrar   by the deadline given on the   Academic Calendar .  There is also a graduation fee that must paid. A student must be registered in residence in the University for the semester in which the degree is to be conferred. The style and format of the thesis must be approved by the library thesis clerk and the student must deposit three copies of the thesis in the library before the degree can be awarded. The final copies of the thesis must be deposited within one year of the thesis defense.  For more information about graduation, please visit  Texas A&M’s Graduation Website .

Master of Arts (Non-Thesis Option) – for PhD students only

Applicants new to Texas A&M may   not   apply to this program. This degree is only available to current Texas A&M graduate students who are seeking an MA before continuing through the PhD program.

Archaeology, Biological, Cultural Programs – Core Courses

Archaeology Program students must take ANTH 602 Archaeological Methods and Theory at Texas A&M. There are no exceptions to this policy.

Anthropology Courses All students must take at least 9 credit hours within anthropology. (This is in addition to the core courses.)

Quantitative Methods All students   must   take STAT 651 Statistics in Research or an equivalent course. Any course that is not STAT 651 or ANTH 642, for example a graduate-level statistics course taken at another university, must have prior departmental approval before being placed on a student’s degree plan.

Outside Electives All students must take at least 6 credit hours outside the Department of Anthropology in subjects related to their research interests. These include such courses as history, geography, geology, ecology, second foreign languages, and other areas of technical or theoretical specialization approved by the student’s advisory committee. Courses required to satisfy the minimum foreign language requirement and STAT 651 cannot be used to meet this requirement.

Research Hours, Internships, and Directed Studies No more than 9 hours may be used in any combination of the following categories: (This includes 685, 690, and 695 in all departments.) No more than 8 credit hours of 685 Directed Studies may be used. No more than 3 hours of 690 Theory of Research may be used. No more than 3 hours of 695 Frontiers in Research may be used. No credit hours of 691 Research may be used. No credit hours of 684 Internship may be used.

Advanced Undergraduate Courses No more than 9 hours of advanced undergraduate courses (300- or 400-level) may be used.

Other Course Exclusions No more than 2 hours of 681 Seminar may be used on a degree plan. No credit hours of FREN 601 or GERM 603 may be used. No more than 3 hours of ENGL 697 may be used. No correspondence study may be used. No credit hours for continuing education courses may be used. No credit hours of extension course work may be used.

Transfer Credit No more than 12 hours may be transferred from an accredited institution. A grade of B or higher is required. A student must be in a degree-seeking status at Texas A&M or the institution where courses were taken when the courses were completed. Courses previously used for another degree are not acceptable for degree plan credit. Course work in which no formal grades or letter grades are given is not acceptable.

Total Hours The degree plan must include   at least   36 credit hours.

Final Examination A final comprehensive examination is required. Students may not be exempted from this exam. This exam may be either oral or written and is determined by the advisory committee. The exam may not be held prior to the mid-point of the semester or summer term in which remaining course work will be completed. A student shall be given only one opportunity to repeat the final exam and that must be before the end of the following regular semester   (summer terms are excluded) .

Continuous Enrollment An MA-NTO student should graduate the same semester in which they complete their coursework on the degree plan. A terminal MA-NTO student (one who will not continue in the PhD track) is   not required   to register the semester they graduate if all degree plan coursework is complete. If a student needs to register for any reason after degree plan coursework is finished, they should register for ANTH 685 Directed Studies.

Award of MA Degree The semester a student intends to graduate an application for graduation must be submitted electronically to the   Office of the Registrar   by the deadline given on the   Academic Calendar .  There is also a graduation fee that must paid.  For more information about graduation, please visit  Texas A&M’s Graduation Website .

Click here   for a complete list of graduate anthropology course offerings.

DrPH Student Places Second in UAlbany's Three-Minute Thesis Competition

 ALBANY, N.Y. (April 7, 2024) — DrPH student Charlotte Huang recently placed second in the sixth annual UAlbany Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) competition , which requires master’s and doctoral students to present their research to an audience of non-experts in only three minutes. 

The original 3MT competition was developed in 2008 by the University of Queensland, Australia, and has since been adopted by over 900 institutions across 85 countries. The idea emerged during a severe drought that prompted public officials to encourage citizens to time their showers to just three minutes to save water.  Alan Lawson, who at the time was Dean of Graduate Studies, felt that a three-minute challenge would be an excellent way to help graduate students practice their presentation and communication skills. 

We sat down with Huang to talk about her research and what it was like to boil down an entire doctoral dissertation into a three-minute presentation. 

Your dissertation, which you presented at 3MT, is titled “Simulating a multi-tier intervention for refugee mental health using agent-based modeling.” How did you end up writing about this topic? 

"I began by exploring my interest in refugee mental health interventions. I discussed my ideas and possible dissertation plans with several professors, and it turned out that Melissa Tracy ’s research aligns well with my interests. I met Dr. Tracy when I took her Psychiatric Epidemiology course in my second year. Her expertise in public health, mental health, and specifically the use of agent-based modeling has provided me with very important guidance as my dissertation research progresses. 

We agreed that primary data collection with a refugee population might not be feasible given my timeframe, so she suggested that using a mathematical simulation model like agent-based modeling would be a way to address this problem while also exploring a new use of this strategy in the mental health field. I recently passed my dissertation proposal defense, and now I am in the early stages of research. I am very excited to learn more about the programming language Python for constructing agent-based models." 

What made you decide to enter the 3MT competition? 

"I think it’s an important skill to be able to present scientific research to a lay audience in a very precise manner, and 3MT provided a great opportunity for me to challenge myself. I also entered because of the cash prizes ($1,000 for first place). I plan to attend a summer workshop on computational social science for my dissertation, and the money will help fund my trip." 

What are your career goals? 

"My goal is to become a public health leader who brings changes to public health and healthcare systems via innovative approaches such as biostatistics programs and simulation models. To be more specific, I see myself working with an interdisciplinary team in consulting, research, or government agencies to create and implement policies and interventions to improve population mental health and quality of care."

Any advice for other graduate students who might be considering taking part in next year’s competition? 

"First, I would say go for it! Even if you are at the early stages of your dissertation research like I am, you should consider participating. 3MT is a great opportunity for you to challenge yourself and present your work. You will also learn a lot from watching other participants give their presentations. 

My strategy was to think of it as a storytelling competition. I decided to use a video game analogy as the main idea to explain the concept of my methodology so that I would not have to get into too many of the technical details. I wrote a script, practiced a lot, collected feedback from my friends, and revised my script for improvement. The hardest part was to skip all of the types of details that doctoral students think are very important but ultimately are not accessible to the audience." 

Hannah Ericson Finishes First Place in UGA Three-Minute Thesis Competition

Hannah Ericson, PhD candidate in Genetics, finished first place in the annual UGA Three-Minute Thesis Competition! The exercise develops academic, presentation, and research communication skills and supports the development of students’ capacities to effectively explain their research in language appropriate to an intelligent but non-specialist audience.

Master’s and doctoral students have three minutes to present a compelling oration on their thesis or dissertation topic and its significance. 3MT ® is not an exercise in trivializing or ‘dumbing-down’ research but forces students to consolidate their ideas and crystalize their research discoveries.

Currently enrolled master’s and doctoral students at the University of Georgia will be eligible to participate in 3MT ® . Graduates are not eligible. Students must present on the research that will culminate in either their master’s thesis or doctoral dissertation. Previous winners of the 3MT ® competition are not eligible to participate. Hannah's first place award is $1000.

Hannah Ericson

Support genetics at uga.

Thank you for your support to the Genetics Department and the University of Georgia. Contributions from alumni and friends are critical to maintaining our core missions of teaching and research. Gifts are tax deductible.

Click here to learn more

Every dollar contributed to the department has a direct impact on our students and faculty.

Help | Advanced Search

General Relativity and Quantum Cosmology

Title: finsler geometry, spacetime & gravity -- from metrizability of berwald spaces to exact vacuum solutions in finsler gravity.

Abstract: This PhD dissertation covers a range of topics in Finsler geometry and Finsler gravity, most notably: (i) the characterization of Berwald spaces, (ii) pseudo-Riemann (non-)metrizability of Berwald spaces, (iii) $(\alpha,\beta)$-metrics, (iv) exact solutions to Pfeifer and Wohlfarth's vacuum field equation in Finsler gravity, and (v) Finsler gravitational waves and their observational signature. An extended abstract can be found in the dissertation itself.

Submission history

Access paper:.

• Other Formats

References & Citations

• INSPIRE HEP
• Google Scholar
• Semantic Scholar

BibTeX formatted citation

Bibliographic and Citation Tools

Code, data and media associated with this article, recommenders and search tools.

• Institution

arXivLabs: experimental projects with community collaborators

arXivLabs is a framework that allows collaborators to develop and share new arXiv features directly on our website.

Both individuals and organizations that work with arXivLabs have embraced and accepted our values of openness, community, excellence, and user data privacy. arXiv is committed to these values and only works with partners that adhere to them.

Have an idea for a project that will add value for arXiv's community? Learn more about arXivLabs .