phd education 2 years

EdDPrograms.org

2-Year Ed.D. Programs

Discover the fastest online and hybrid Ed.D. programs in the country! We've assembled detailed listings of universities that offer accelerated Ed.D. pathways , from executive doctorates to ABD (All But Dissertation) options. Browse through the offerings to find an accredited Ed.D. that's right for your budget and timeframe.

Updated on March 22, 2024

What are the Fastest Ed.D. Programs?

The fastest online Ed.D. programs range from 18 months to just under 3 years. You won’t find anything quicker! We’ve provided a detailed description of all of them in our listings . Accelerated Ed.D. programs tend to fall into 3 broad categories:

• Full-Time Doctorates in Educational Leadership: These types of Ed.D. programs are similar to traditional doctorates in leadership, but with a fiercer schedule. Universities may try to pack 54-60 credits into a 2-3 year time span. It’s achievable, but it will be challenging.
• Executive Doctorates: Executive Ed.D. programs are aimed at mid-level and senior-level professionals who want a 2-year plan. These doctorates often have a fair number of campus components (e.g. monthly weekend sessions); some will also include an international experience. You can learn more about these in our Executive Ed.D. Programs Guide .
• All But Dissertation (ABD) Completion Doctorates: ABD options are tailored to folks who already have previous course credits, work experience, and career achievements on their résumé. Typically, the university will conduct a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) to determine how many credits will be left on your degree. So you may only have to complete a dissertation to graduate.

If you’re willing to stretch to 3-4 years, you’ll find more variation, such as concentrations in areas other than educational leadership. Check out the database of Online Ed.D. programs for a full list of options.

How 2-Year Ed.D. Programs Work

Accelerated Ed.D. programs are often built for working professionals with a certain level of expertise—educators who want to take a leap up to the next level. That’s why you’ll see 2-year programs designed for aspiring college presidents (e.g. Executive Ed.D. programs), educators who want to become principals or superintendents (e.g. Ed.D. programs in Educational Leadership), and students who just want to finish their dissertation (e.g. ABD).

• Admissions: Because they’re targeted at different crowds, each 2-year Ed.D. program will have a different threshold for admissions; we’ve included a link to requirements so you can assess your chances. Some schools, such as NYU, will expect you to talk about your capstone or dissertation goals. A number of schools will still wish to see GRE or GMAT scores.
• Curriculum: For the most part, the curriculum is going to be similar to a regular Ed.D., albeit in a condensed timeframe. But you may notice more high-level elements (e.g. roundtable discussions) and one-on-one attention (e.g. mentorship).
• Course Credits: 2-year Ed.D. programs in Educational Leadership usually make room for electives or focus areas; some will even help you toward certification in your state. Executive Ed.D. programs will be more rigid in structure. ABD Options are straightforward—you’ll be expected to focus on your dissertation.
• Dissertation vs. Capstone: Check the descriptions and the curriculum link under each profile to learn what’s expected. Many universities still favor a traditional dissertation, which is usually prepared for in the first year and written in the second. But others have gone the way of research-based capstone projects. Lipscomb even allows you to work in small teams.

Are 2-Year Ed.D. Programs Offered Online?

Yes! The majority of fast-track Ed.D. programs in our listings are online, with either zero or minimal on-campus requirements (e.g. 2 weekend residencies). In some instances, universities will leave the decision up to you—Monmouth allows you to choose how often you wish to visit campus. To give you the full range of options, we’ve also included details on hybrid programs and Executive Ed.D. programs with monthly attendance requirements.

The fastest online Ed.D. programs aren’t always the best—you should consider the School or College of Education’s reputation, accreditation, and quality markers when you’re making your decision. We also recommend that you speak with recent online Ed.D. alumni. They will tell you the good and the bad about the program and offer advice on making the most of distance learning.

Finally, if you’re considering any program with campus components, examine the tuition and fees section carefully. Some universities are happy to cover the cost of accommodation in tuition or program fees (e.g. Penn). However, they’re unlikely to compensate you for travel expenses to and from the campus.

Is a 2-Year Ed.D. Program Right for You?

Accelerated Ed.D. programs are—by their very nature—full-time and intense. You’ll be expected to take on a significant workload in two years. If you have a family and a job, it’s going to be quite a ride. Remember, too, that many programs have campus intensives or international trips built into the curriculum. You’ll need to allow for time away from home.

Having said that, if you’re an experienced professional with clear goals (e.g. superintendent certification, job promotion, executive-level position, etc.), a 2-year Ed.D. program may be right up your street. They are some highly respectable names in our listings , including Penn, NYU Steinhardt, and UGA. You don’t need to sacrifice quality for time.

All 2-Year Ed.D. Programs

We scoured our database to find the nation’s fastest on-campus and online Ed.D. programs. Here are 19 schools that offer Ed.D. programs you can complete in as little as two years:

Alverno College

Bay path university, brenau university, colorado state university pueblo, edgewood college, gwynedd mercy university, lipscomb university, louisiana state university shreveport, milligan university, monmouth university.

• Nebraska Methodist University

New York University

Purdue global, rockhurst university, spalding university, union institute & university, university of georgia, university of louisiana monroe, university of pennsylvania.

Read on to learn more about each school’s two-year Ed.D. programs.

• Online Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) – Doctoral Completion (ABD Program)

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 27 Delivery : Online with 2 Weekend Residencies

Alverno 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

The School of Education’s fastest online Ed.D. is the 27-credit All But Dissertation (ABD) option . This allows students who have previous coursework & experience to transfer existing credits, complete a dissertation, and earn the Ed.D. with a concentration in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education. The syllabus includes 6 dissertation courses and 4 concentration courses, with online coursework and 2 weekend residencies in Milwaukee.

The majority of students in the accelerated ABD option finish in 6 semesters/2 years, but the total time will depend on how many previous credits you’ll be able to transfer in. If you don’t qualify for the doctoral completion pathway, you’re welcome to explore the other online Ed.D. programs at Alverno. Just keep in mind that these will be 54-57 credits and may take 3-4 years to complete.

For More Information:

• Online Ed.D. Curriculum
• Online Ed.D. Admissions
• Online Ed.D. Tuition
• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership: All But Dissertation (ABD) Option

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 30 Delivery : 100% Online

Bay Path 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

For its Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership , Bay Path has a standard, 3-year program and an accelerated 30-credit All But Dissertation (ABD) Option . The ABD pathway is aimed at students who have completed all requirements for a doctoral degree, with the exception of a dissertation at an accredited institution of higher learning. It’s available in Higher Education Leadership or Transformative School Leadership (K-12 settings).

The ABD pathway is 6 semesters/2 years, with an optional Immersive Weekend experience. Before tackling an action-focused Dissertation in Practice (DiP), you’ll take a number of research-based leadership courses (e.g. Leading Transformation and Change). During the DiP, you’ll also be able to participate in small online study/work groups called Leader-Scholar Communities.

• Online Ed.D. Higher Education Curriculum
• Online Ed.D. Transformative School Curriculum
• Online Ed.D. All But Dissertation (ABD) Doctoral Completion Pathway

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 27 Delivery : Online with 2 Residencies

Brenau 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

Brenau offers a 27-credit ABD option for 4 concentration areas within its Online Ed.D. You can choose from: Elementary Education, Middle Grades Education, Higher Education: Leadership, or Higher Education: Teaching and Learning.

It’s a 2-year program with 2 campus residencies, advanced coursework in your area of interest, and dissertation support from day one. The Leadership in Higher Education concentration will include a practicum.

• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 58 Delivery : 100% Online

CSU Pueblo’s 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

On a full-time schedule, CSU Pueblo’s highly affordable Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership for PreK-20 leaders can be polished off in 2 years. However, you do have the option to take more time if needed. CSU Pueblo recommends you think long & hard about your dissertation topic and talk to the program advisor before committing to a 2-year plan of study.

This is a 100% online doctorate with asynchronous coursework (no live sessions) and 8-week accelerated classes. The 58-credit curriculum includes a Doctoral Practicum in Educational Leadership (120 contact hours), spaced out over 4 semesters, and a traditional 5-chapter dissertation. The practicum is a nice touch, since it allows you to learn from mentors and current educational leaders in the field.

• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership Completion Program (ABD)

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 1.5 Years Credits : 30 Delivery : 100% Online

Edgewood’s 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

Edgewood’s Ed.D. in Educational Leadership Completion Program is an All-But-Dissertation (ABD) doctorate. You must have 24 post master’s degree credits with a 3.0 GPA from a regionally accredited institution in order to apply. And these doctoral-level credits must have been earned within the past 20 years.

Successful Ed.D. applicants will be able to tackle 30 credits at Edgewood, including a starting class in Ed Leadership Foundations & Ethics, 18 credits of research courses, and a dissertation. Most students finish this ABD program in 18 months. But you can take longer if needed.

• Online ABD Ed.D. Curriculum
• Online ABD Ed.D. Admissions
• Online ABD Ed.D. Tuition
• Online Accelerated All But Dissertation (ABD) Ed.D (Multiple Concentrations)
• Online Accelerated Executive Ed.D. in Education: Leadership and Teaching & Learning

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 1.5 Years (ABD): Less Than 3 Years (Executive) Credits : 27-54 Delivery : Online with Weekend Residencies

GMercyU 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

GMercyU’s fastest online Ed.D. is the All But Dissertation (ABD) option , offered by the School of Graduate and Professional Studies . This 18-month accelerated Ed.D. is tailored to students who already have a portfolio of previous coursework, scholarship, and career evidence for the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA). Once you’ve been accepted, you’ll be required to take 27 credits at GMercyU, but you’ll be able to choose from a number of concentration areas, with options for certification. Coursework is online, with one mandatory weekend residency.

If you don’t have any previous coursework, take a look at GMercy U’s Online Accelerated Executive Ed.D. in Education . This is a full-bore, 54-credit online doctorate that takes less than 3 years to complete. It includes online coursework, a field experience, two on-campus residencies, and one international study experience (international residency travel costs are included in tuition). Plus administrators and principals with at least 3 years of experience have the option to earn a Superintendent Letter of Eligibility in Pennsylvania.

• Online Executive Ed.D. Curriculum
• Online Executive Ed.D. Admissions
• Ed.D. in Learning Organizations and Strategic Change

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years (On-Campus); 3 Years (Online) Credits : 54 Delivery : On-Campus or Online with Intensives

Lipscomb 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

Lipscomb’s accelerated Ed.D. in Learning Organizations and Strategic Change is the brainchild of the College of Education . It’s a Christian-based Ed.D. that’s offered in two formats: a cohort-based, on-campus program in Nashville that takes 2 years to complete and an online version that takes 3 years to finish. The online program includes two on-campus intensives, a remote intensive via Zoom, and a 10-day international experience in the first summer.

Are you currently working in K-12 or higher education? Lipscomb offers a generous 25% in-service scholarship to all full-time educators. We also wanted to note that the university uses a capstone model. Instead of a dissertation, Ed.D. students collaborate in small teams (2-3 students) on a practical research-based project.

• Ed.D. Curriculum
• Ed.D. Admissions
• Ed.D. Tuition
• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership (Multiple Concentrations)

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2.25 Years Credits : 63 Delivery : 100% Online

LSUS’s 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

LSUS’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership is not only short—it’s one of the most affordable doctorates in the country. Concentrations are offered in Leadership Studies, Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management, and Health Communication & Leadership. You don’t have to visit the campus for this 100% online program, but you should plan for weekly Zoom meetings. LSUS also encourages students to take advantage of opportunities for research and conference presentations.

Our 2.25 year estimate is based on a full-time plan of study. This schedule would involve taking 2 courses per 7-week session for 8 sessions/4 semesters. There are multiple start dates throughout the year, so when you finish is up to you. A part-time plan of a study, with 1 course per session, would take 3.5 years.

• Ed.D. in Educational Leadership

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 57 Delivery : Hybrid

Milligan 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

Milligan’s full-time, cohort-based Ed.D. in Educational Leadership is offered by the School of Social Sciences & Education . It’s an accelerated doctorate that’s designed to foster system leaders and help K-12 teachers earn their certification as school administrators (e.g. principals or assistant principals). Coursework is a blend of online learning, hybrid classes, and face-to-face experiences in Tennessee, including Saturday residencies.

If you put the pedal to the metal, you can finish the entire program in 24 months. 45 credits are devoted to leadership classes, including 9 credits that are cross-listed with courses from Milligan’s MBA; the remaining 12 credits are reserved for your dissertation. You’ll also be assigned a mentor who will guide you through practicum experiences, portfolio building, and research seminars.

• Ed.D. in Educational Leadership: P-12
• Ed.D. in Educational Leadership: Higher Education

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 54 Delivery : Online, Hybrid or Face-to-Face

Monmouth 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

The School of Education has consolidated its cohort-based Ed.D. in Educational Leadership into 2 hard-core years. This accelerated Ed.D. is available in a flexible format—you can choose how often you wish to come to campus and how much you want to study online. On-campus coursework in West Long Branch, New Jersey typically takes place on alternate Saturdays and selected Thursday nights.

Over the course of the 54-credit syllabus, you’ll tackle 5 learning strands, including a Transformative Leadership Project that will form the basis of your dissertation. Ed.D. students at Monmouth have the freedom to select elective courses in higher education or P-12. But you can also mix and match electives to suit your career goals.

Nebraska Methodist College

• Online Ed.D. in Education & Leadership in Healthcare

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 42 Delivery : Online with 2 Campus Intensives

NMC’s 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

Aiming to work in academic and healthcare settings? NMC’s speedy Online Ed.D. in Education & Leadership in Healthcare may fit the bill. On a full-time schedule, this specialist doctorate only takes 24 months to complete. You’ll start in the fall or spring and take 2-4 courses per term for 6 terms. A part-time, 3-year plan of a study is also available.

NMC keeps things efficient for busy professionals. The two intensive learning sessions on the Omaha campus are scheduled for the beginning of the program (orientation) and the summer between years 1 and 2. Work on the doctoral scholarly project occurs throughout the program, starting in the second term. And classes are designed to be offered in 5-week increments—some are 5 weeks, some are 10 weeks, and some are 15 weeks.

• Online Ed.D. in Leadership and Innovation

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 42 Delivery : Online with Week-Long Residency

NYU 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

NYU Steinhardt has packed a lot into its fast Online Ed.D. in Leadership and Innovation . Over the course of 2 years, you’ll be expected to tackle 17 courses and take part in a week-long immersive residency. This residency is a blend of seminar-style sessions, discussions, exercises, a Master Speaker Series, and project presentations.

Like many universities, NYU has replaced the traditional Ed.D. dissertation with a capstone model. NYU Steinhardt calls this the Problem of Practice (POP) and it expects applicants to have a POP in mind when they apply for the program. Be sure to check out the Problem of Practice (POP) Guide in the Admissions section before you start crafting your application essay.

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 90 Quarter Hours Delivery : 100% Online

Purdue Global’s 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

Purdue Global states that master’s degree candidates can finish its Online Ed.D. in Leadership and Innovation in 2 years, although the average for Ed.D. students is 2.5 years. The curriculum is based on quarter hours, not semester hours. So 60 hours of core coursework & dissertation study and 30 hours of electives won’t take as long as you think. For example, each core course is 5 credits.

This is a 100% online doctorate, with multiple start dates throughout the year. Sessions are 10 weeks long; full-time students take 2 courses per session. It’s a degree that can be applied to a wide variety of educational & workplace settings. Have look at the Graduate Catalog to learn more about the structure of the curriculum.

• Online Ed.D. in Education and Leadership (Multiple Concentrations)

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 45 Delivery : 100% Online

Rockhurst’s 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

You can use Rockhurst’s accelerated Online Ed.D. in Education and Leadership to specialize in everything from K-12 Leadership or Higher Education to Health Care Education or Organizational Leadership. All of the concentrations are structured on the same principles: a 6-semester plan of study, a 100% online format, and a capstone project in lieu of a dissertation. There are 2 start dates per year.

Rockhurst has recently become a CPED member, so it has packed its cohort-based program with engaging elements. In addition to the capstone project, you’ll complete a mandatory College Teaching Practicum or Practicum in Organizational Leadership. If you have time, you may also want to add a DEI, STEAM, or Medical Spanish graduate certificate at no extra cost.

• Hybrid Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 60 Delivery : Hybrid

Spalding’s 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

Aspiring public & private sector leaders in Kentucky—here’s a hidden gem from a Catholic university. Spalding’s accelerated Online Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership is made up of 10 courses of 6 credits each. You only have to take one course per term in order to finish your doctorate in 2 years. And the program starts in the fall, spring, or summer.

The Graduate Catalog contains more details on the program delivery. All courses are delivered online over 8 weeks with a 2.5-day (22 hour) face-to-face residency. You’ll explore every aspect of organizational leadership before focusing on a capstone project in the last two terms. This capstone can address a problem of practice in your own work or in a partnering organization.

• Hybrid Ed.D. Curriculum
• Hybrid Ed.D. Admissions
• Hybrid Ed.D. Tuition
• Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership (PreK-12)
• Online Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership

Fastest Ed.D. Length : Less than 3 Years Credits : 66 Delivery : 100% Online

Union’s 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

The speed of Union’s Online Ed.D. will depend on how many master’s-level credits you can transfer into the program. Full-time students who transfer in 12 credits can complete the Ed.D. in 24 months/2 years. But you may be able to transfer more or less depending on your circumstances. See the section on Transfer Credit Criteria for details.

This 100% online doctorate bases its plan of study on traditional 16-week terms—you can start in the spring, summer, or fall. On a full-time schedule, you might take 3 courses per term for 6 terms and then work on your dissertation in the Term 7. We wanted to note that the curriculum includes an internship in Terms 5 & 6. A virtual residency is also held at the start of each term.

• Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education Management

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 52 Delivery : On-Campus (Intensive Weekends; 2 Week-Long Study Trips)

UGA 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

If you’re interested in an accelerated Ed.D. with a global perspective, the Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education Management at UGA’s Institute of Higher Education (IHE) is well-worth a look! It’s a fast-track, 2-year program with intensive weekend meetings in Atlanta and two week-long summer experiences in Washington, D.C. and the Netherlands.

There are no electives in this cohort-based doctorate. Instead, the curriculum focuses on core concepts such as organization & governance, college access & success, and policy at the state and federal level. All of this work culminates in a dissertation. The tuition and program fee includes all meals, lodging, books and some international travel, but it does not include travel expenses to and from the program site.

• Executive Ed.D. Curriculum
• Executive Ed.D. Admissions
• Executive Ed.D. Tuition
• Online Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 60 Delivery : 100% Online with Optional Campus Visits

ULM’s 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

Explore ideas around school improvement and instruction with ULM’s convenient Online Ed.D. in Curriculum & Instruction . With a little elbow grease, you can choose from one of 5 start dates and finish this 60-credit doctorate in 2 years. ULM’s program is 100% online, but students are welcome to visit the campus to meet professors in person.

All in all, the program contains 8 core courses, 7 concentration courses, and 15 hours for the capstone. Coursework is split into 8-week sessions and there are 5 sessions per year. So we’re estimating you might end up taking ~2 courses per session (10 courses per year).

Fastest Ed.D. Length : 2 Years Credits : 20 Course Units Delivery : On-Campus (Monthly Course Sessions and 2-Week International Experience)

Penn 2-Year Ed.D. Overview

Aspiring Deans and Presidents take note—the Executive Ed.D. in Higher Education Management at Penn’s Graduate School of Education is designed for seasoned, senior-level professionals. Applicants are expected to have 10+ years of experience. It’s a cohort-based Ed.D. with monthly course sessions and an intriguing global experience that takes place at the beginning of the second year.

The curriculum is a mix of research credits, high flying coursework (e.g. higher education finance, public policy, student and campus services, etc.), faculty roundtables, and dissertation work. Program fees are inclusive of all books, meals, on-campus hotel accommodations, and the majority of costs associated with the international trip. But you will need to budget for extra travel expenses to the program from your home.

Doctor of Education : Doctorate Degree in Education

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

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

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

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

Upcoming admissions events.

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

Doctor of Education Student Panel

Doctor of Education Problem of Practice Webinar

Core Faculty

Yolanda abel, edd.

Associate Professor

Affiliation

Advanced Studies in Education

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

Camille Bryant, PhD

Joshua travis brown, phd.

Assistant Professor

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

Marcia Davis, PhD

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

Center for Social Organization of Schools, SOE Leadership

Learning & Instruction, Research, Evaluation & Assessment

Christine Eith, PhD

Interim Department Chair, Advanced Studies in Education Assistant Professor

Keri M. Guilbault, EdD

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

Counseling & Educational Studies

Gifted Education, Learning & Instruction

Ranjini Mahinda JohnBull, PhD

Learning & Instruction, Mind, Brain, & Teaching

Olivia Marcucci, PhD

Advanced Studies in Education, Center for Safe and Healthy Schools

Social Context of Education

James Diamond, PhD

Educational Technology, Learning & Instruction

E. Juliana Pare-Blagoev, EdD

Eric rice, phd.

Social Context of Education, Urban Education

Laura Flores Shaw, EdD

Assistant Professor Faculty Lead, Doctor of Education

Learning & Instruction

Henry M. Smith, EdD

Administration, Organization & Leadership, Education Policy & Politics

Program Overview

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

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

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

Areas of Interest

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

Entrepreneurial Leadership in Education

Learning design and technology, neurodiversity and neuroeducation, urban leadership.

*Courses and course sequences are subject to change.

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

Sample Courses:

• Entrepreneurship in Education
• Talent Management and Organizational Finance for Entrepreneurial Leaders
• Data Driven Decision Making
• Partnerships and Educational Organizations
• Leadership in Education Organizations
• Research on Effective Professional Development

The EdD program’s Learning Design and Technology (LDT) area of interest is designed to equip educational leaders and researchers with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to critically engage with the rapidly evolving field of educational technology. This area of interest draws on the foundational elements of the school’s LDT program, focusing on the integration of learning sciences, human-centered design, and innovative assessment strategies to drive meaningful educational change. EdD students will explore the intersection of technology and pedagogy, exploring conceptual and empirical research and developing skills in designing, implementing, and evaluating digital learning environments. Through this area of interest, students will be prepared to lead initiatives that leverage technology to enhance learning outcomes, promote equity and inclusivity, and address the diverse needs of learners in various educational contexts. This area of interest is ideal for those looking to make a significant impact on educational practice and policy through the thoughtful application of educational technologies.

• Gaming and Simulations for Learning
• How People Learn
• Computational Thinking for K–12 Educators
• Maker Education: Cultivating Curiosity, Creativity, and Problem Solving in Theory and Practice
• Foundations and Applications of Learning Experience Design
• AI in Education

The Neurodiversity and Neuroeducation area of interest is designed for educators eager to explore research in cognitive science and neuroscience and its potential applications in education. Courses promote the integration of diverse disciplines that investigate human learning and development. This area of interest draws upon basic and applied research from cognitive science, psychology, brain sciences, neurology, neuroscience, and education. Educators develop the knowledge and skills to interpret basic and applied research and to apply relevant findings to educational practices and policies with a social justice lens. Courses in this area of interest focus on building expertise in learning sciences and cognitive diversity, preparing candidates for roles as informed educators, effective leaders, and skilled advocates for equity and excellence.

• Mind, Brain Science, and Learning
• Fundamentals of Cognitive Development
• Neurobiology of Learning Differences
• Twice Exceptional Learners
• Creativity in Education
• Social, Emotional, and Psychosocial Development of the Gifted
• Survey of Autism
• Introduction to Children and Youth With Exceptionalities

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

• Approaches to Urban Education
• Individuals in Urban Context
• Organizations and Institutions
• Partnerships and Community Organizing
• Power, Politics, and Policy in Education
• Leadership for School and Educational Organization Redesign
• Critical Theories of Race and Racism in Education

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

• Administrator
• Superintendent
• Instructional Designer
• Chief Learning Officer

100% Online

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

Legal Disclosure

State-specific information for online students.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Are you in search of the fastest online doctoral degree programs? Traditional, on-campus doctoral degree programs, on average, take about 5.9 years to complete.

Not only is this a long duration, but the time spent throughout those 6 years can also be tremendous. With online doctoral programs, students have the leisure of flexible, asynchronous class times that nurture one-on-one relationships between students and professors. They can take as little as 2 years!

These online schools represent some of the finest academic institutions in America, with outstanding online doctoral programs that can be completed in a fraction of the time compared to traditional programs.

METHODOLOGY

The writers and editors of Online-PhD-Degrees.com gather the most important and relevant information from the independent, unbiased  NCES.gov’s College Navigator,  as well as, college websites and publicly available data including various highly respected sources. This ranking, of the Fastest Online Doctoral Degree (Ph.D. and Ed.D.) programs is composed of online colleges and universities that meet strict criteria. To be included in this index, each school must offer:

• 100% online availability for their accelerated doctoral degrees so that students never have to attend classes or meetings on campus,
• Accelerated doctoral curricula that can be completed in 2 years with a maximum completion time of up to 3 years,
• Noteworthiness from journalistic resources in recognition of the school’s academic excellence and fast-paced doctoral degrees.
• Proper Regional Accreditation,
• Faculty members with high levels of experience and notable credentials,
• Financial Aid options through Grants and Scholarships.

To learn more, see our Methodology page.

FASTEST ONLINE DOCTORAL (PH.D. AND ED.D.) DEGREE PROGRAMS

Gwynedd mercy university.

About the School: Gwynedd Mercy University’s online Accelerated Executive Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership is revered by many respectable sources as one of the speediest doctoral programs available, which can be completed in less than three years.

This degree consists of 54 credits in a motivational learning community that develops the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to lead and transform educational institutions.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice is another GMercyU accelerated program that can be completed in as little as two years, in which students engage with doctoral-level theoretical concepts and develop evidence-based solutions to issues in the nursing profession.

Campus Location: Gwynedd Valley, PA

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission

Accelerated Doctoral Programs:

• Ed.D. in Educational Leadership
• Doctor of Nursing Practice

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE GWYNEDD MERCY UNIVERSITY’S   ONLINE ACCELERATED DOCTORATE OF EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP DEGREE PROGRAM

The College of Saint Scholastica

About the School: The College of St. Scholastica is a Catholic Benedictine university that provides intellectual and moral preparation for responsible living and meaningful work. The Doctor of Physical Therapy is a highly regarded program for rigorous academic standards and thorough career preparation by enhancing students’ current skills, while also building new ones.

Students learn from clinical practitioner expert faculty members who bring an incredible amount of experience to the online classroom. The coursework can be completed in as little as two years and does not sacrifice any challenge or excellence to the coursework.

Campus Location: Duluth, MN

• Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COLLEGE OF ST. SCHOLASTICA’S   ONLINE TRANSITIONAL DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY DEGREE PROGRAM

Seton Hall University

About the School: Seton Hall University is dedicated to ensuring that its professional doctoral programs are based on essential knowledge, evolving technologies, research findings, and reflective practice.

The Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership, Management and Policy can be as short as 45 credits including one’s master’s degree, and equips practitioners with a variety of theoretical and research-based administrative and supervisory skills for potential practicing educational administrators and leaders.

The program offers two unique concentration options: Management and Administration, and College Teaching, each of which can complete this exceptional coursework in as little as three years.

Campus Location: South Orange, NJ

• Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership, Management, and Policy

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SETON HALL UNIVERSITY’S   ONLINE ED.D. in LEADERSHIP MANAGEMENT DEGREE PROGR AM

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

About the School: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is well-known for its prestigious online programs, many of which have received recognition from various journalistic sites and resources across the country. Doctoral-level health science online students at this university have the opportunity to earn their degree in as little as two years.

The DPT program is only two years at a part-time schedule, giving students the time and focus to immerse themselves fully in their coursework without giving up any professional or personal time.

The Master to Doctor program gives undergraduate online students a tremendous chance to earn the highest credentials possible in an incredibly short amount of time.

Campus Location: Chapel Hill, NC

• Master of Public Health to Doctor of Pharmacy
• Transitional Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL’S   ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

University of Southern California

About the School: The University of Southern California is a superbly respected and competitive online school that has been one of the foremost purveyors of distance education for many consecutive years.

This school offers doctoral students the opportunity to earn their degree in 2-3 years through various specializations. The Doctor of Physical Therapy has been celebrated by U.S. News and World Report as being housed in the number one physical therapy school in the United States.

The Doctor of Social Work can be completed in two years at a full-time pace and gives students access to a wonderfully supportive, open, and beneficial virtual community with the Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. The Global Executive Doctor of Education gives students the exciting opportunity to travel the world and spans approximately 25 months.

Campus Location: Los Angeles, CA

A ccreditation:

• Doctor of Physical Therapy
• Doctor of Social Work
• Global Executive Doctor of Education

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S   ONLINE DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAMS

University of North Dakota

About the School: The University of North Dakota offers online students six unique opportunities to major in doctoral degrees in nursing that take three years or less, as well as one exciting program in Biomedical Engineering that only takes 2 years!

These highly professional, accelerated, online programs offer students both full-time and part-time options to complete their coursework. The innovative UND programs develop applicable, hands-on skills.

The university is highly dedicated to students’ success and maintains an incredibly impressive 96% job placement rate for graduates of their various online degrees. Students learn in small classes that encourage close relationships between professors and classmates.

Individuals exiting the accelerated programs below go on to contribute outstanding achievements to the field of engineering and nursing.

Campus Location: Grand Forks, ND

• Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering
• Ph.D. in Nursing
• DNP – Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Nurse Anesthesia
• DNP – Nursing Practice

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA’S   ONLINE Ph.D. DEGREE PROGRAMS

Boston University

About the School: Boston University is one of the most well-known and prestigious academic institutions in America and offers an online Doctorate in Occupational Therapy that is one of the most expeditious doctoral degree programs available in a distance format, at only 18 months! Online degree programs from this school carry with them all of the outstanding opportunities and amenities of their on-campus counterparts.

This degree program is housed within a collaborative learning environment in which students develop the advanced knowledge needed to create innovative responses to the current and future needs of individuals, communities, and populations.

Campus Location: Boston, MA

• Occupational Therapy, Doctorate

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BOSTON UNIVERSITY’S   ONLINE DOCTORATE IN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DEGREE PROGRAM

Duquesne University

About the School: Duquesne University offers online doctoral students more than just degrees that earn them a diploma in less than three years, but rather “expansive academic knowledge and skills while learning more about themselves and making a difference in the community and the world.”

Ranked as one of the top small research universities in the United States, doctoral students benefit from a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio, wherein they have direct interactions with peers and professors.

The Doctor in Instructional Technology and Leadership is a two-and-a-half-year program in which students critically and reflectively study issues of equality, opportunity, and leadership to promote a democratic ideology of education.

Campus Location: Pittsburgh, PA

• Ed.D. in Instructional Technology and Leadership

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DUQUESNE UNIVERSITY’S   ONLINE GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

About the School: The Chicago School of Professional Psychology has gained recent notoriety for its online programs, offering some of the highest quality online psychology degree programs available. Doctoral students can earn their degree in only 3 years in all of the programs listed below.

The Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis and the Ph.D. in Business Psychology can be completed in five years for individuals who only hold a bachelor’s degree in an applicable field, which is a concise amount of time in which to earn such a prestigious credential.

Upon exiting this online school, students have the reputation, knowledge, skill, and research capabilities, to go out into the field of psychology and make a hugely positive impact in their communities, as well as in the field as a whole.

Campus Location: Chicago, IL

• Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis
• Ed.D. in Educational Psychology and Technology
• Ph.D. in Business Psychology
• Ph.D. in International Psychology
• Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CHICAGO SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGY’S   ONLINE PH.D. and ED.D. DEGREE PROGRAMS

California Intercontinental University

About the School: California Intercontinental University offers students some of the fastest online Doctor of Business Administration degrees in the world, all of which can be completed in two years with zero campus visits. The DBA gives students multiple opportunities to major in an area that most fits their current and future career goals.

This academic institution is popular for supplying fantastic and well-suited distance education programs to working adults, veterans and military service members, and Department of Defense employees, as well as their families.

These affordable programs give students all of the tools needed for academic and professional success within the field of business administration. Each program prepares students to utilize the most advanced and modern decision-making skills.

Campus Location: Diamond Bar, CA

• Doctorate of Business Administration
• DBA – Entrepreneurship and Business Management
• DBA – Global Business and Leadership
• DBA – Healthcare Management and Leadership
• DBA – Information Systems and Enterprise Resource Management

LEARN MORE ABOUT CALIFORNIA INTERCONTINENTAL UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION DEGREE PROGRA MS

Nova Southeastern University

About the School: Nova Southeastern University is a popular online school that is incredibly well-liked by students and graduates alike, which can be seen in its impressive retention rate—an indicator of student satisfaction. NSU offers online doctoral students the opportunity to major in three unique and differing areas, each of which can be completed in 2 to 3 years.

The Conflict Analysis program can be completed in 2.5 years and includes four specialization options. The Ed.D. program is 3 years long and includes eight exciting concentration options. The Ph.D. in Nursing focuses on nursing education and research and is also a 3-year program.

At Nova Southeastern, doctoral students can expect flexibility, respect, and access to outstanding resources and brilliant faculty members. Upon exiting this school, NSU remains a strong resource for career placement and networking capabilities for future professionals.

Campus Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

• National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education
• Ed.D. in Education
• Ph.D. in Conflict Analysis and Resolution
• PH.D. in Nursing

LEARN MORE ABOUT NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY’S DISTANCE-LEARNING DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

Liberty University

About the School: Liberty University is an evangelical Christian university that offers a large number of online programs. Students all across the nation engage in Liberty’s state-of-the-art degrees by distance and have access to tremendous resources, amenities, extracurricular opportunities, and brilliant faculty members.

The online doctoral degree programs offer the same challenge and prestige as on-campus degrees, five of which can be completed in 2-3 years, max!

Students throughout the globe can earn the highest possible academic status without disrupting their professional and personal lives, and enhance their careers in a very short time, with Liberty University.

Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA

• Council for Accreditation of Counseling Related and Educational Programs
• Doctor of Ministry
• Doctor of Worship Studies
• Ph.D. in Public Policy
• Ph.D. in Criminal Justice
• Doctor of Strategic Leadership

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S   ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

University of Arkansas

About the School: The University of Arkansas is another state school that is well-known for its flexible, accommodating, challenging, and supportive online degree programs, many of which have been reviewed as some of the finest in the nation by such journalistic resources as U.S. News and World Report .

The two Doctor of Education programs provide students with outstanding curricula in unique areas of the discipline: adult learning and educational leadership. The Adult and Lifelong Learning doctorate programs last 2.5 years and the Educational Leadership doctorate is 3 years.

Despite their program of choice, these professionals are educated in state-of-the-art educational platforms that involve high levels of research and practice capabilities.

Campus Location: Fayetteville, AR

• Ed.D. in Adult and Lifelong Learning

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS’   ONLINE DOCTORAL (Ed.D.) DEGREE PROGRAMS

Jefferson University

About the School: Thomas Jefferson University and Philadelphia University engage in a collaborative academic institution known simply as, Jefferson University, which offers excellent online degree programs including two that can be completed in 3 years.

Jefferson University is devoted to delivering superb and challenging coursework that prepares graduates for their professional careers, through an engaging, interactive, online learning community “where ideas thrive and creativity is fostered.”

The Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program prepares professional nurses for scholarly practice as clinical and health systems experts who lead and inspire health care improvement and reform. The Occupational Therapy Doctorate is an entry-level practice doctorate designed to prepare students to enter the field of occupational therapy at the doctoral level.

Campus Location: Philadelphia, PA

• Post-Professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY’S   ONLINE ACCELERATED DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

Regis University

About the School: Regis University provides rigorous curricula needed to reach individual career goals, and that “challenges students to reflect on tradition, continuity, and change, and to explore the quintessential Regis question, ‘How ought we to live?’ ”

Doctoral students have two opportunities to earn a degree in 2-3 years in either nursing or occupational therapy programs. Regis is a distinctive and well-regarded purveyor of distance education and has been included on numerous lists and catalogs of the best programs in the nation.

These two doctoral degrees give students access to state-of-the-art virtual resources, as well as opportunities to engage in their community through their online coursework. This Jesuit, Catholic academic institution is welcoming to all students and provides all the amenities of a top-tier Western university.

Campus Location: Denver, CO

• Doctor of Occupational Therapy

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE REGIS UNIVERS ITY’S   ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREES AND PROGRAMS

University of Bridgeport

About the School: The two accelerated doctoral degree programs from the University of Bridgeport are both 3-year programs. The Ed.D. in Educational Leadership includes a specialization in International Education in which students will learn to master principles of educational leadership while infusing global issues across cultures into classrooms and organizations.

The Health Sciences, D.H.Sc Hybrid program allows students to hone their skills in research, evidence-informed care delivery, education and curriculum development, and public health.

UB provides experienced faculty members who bring worlds of knowledge to the online classroom and teach flexible, interactive, and highly supportive degree programs. This institution was one of the pioneer schools to offer online degree programs in 1997!

Campus Location: Bridgeport, CT

• Health Sciences, D.H.Sc. Hybrid Degree Program

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF BRIDGEPORT’S   ONLINE FAST-PACED DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

Maryville University of Saint Louis

About the School: The Maryville University of St. Louis has an array of accelerated doctoral degrees in nursing practice that take students’ nursing careers in specialized areas that vastly improve their capabilities in practice and research.

The Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership has an emphasis on reflective, future-focused leadership to answer today’s big questions in higher education, and explore the leadership theories that develop expertise in various educational methods!

Students at this school receive personalized mentorship in a cohort learning model-based virtual classroom. Individuals can exit these programs in as little as 32 months with a professional doctorate in their area of skill.

Dedicated to helping students complete their coursework as soon as possible, the Maryville University of St. Louis has huge respect for individuals’ professional and personal time and energy outside of their program.

Campus Location: St. Louis, MO

• DNP – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Nurse Practitioner
• Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MARYVILLE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LOUIS’   ONLINE DNP and DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAMS

University of Florida

About the School: The University of Florida is another of the country’s most fabulous online schools that provide students with outstanding resources for all distance education students. Doctor of Nursing Practice students will find an excellent opportunity to complete 35 credits in the MSN to DNP program online in only two-and-a-half years or five semesters!

The DNP is an advanced educational credential for those who desire advanced practice knowledge but do not need or want a research focus. Comparatively, the BSN to DNP program is 75 credits, which would take students nearly 8 semesters to complete.

Campus Location: Gainesville, FL

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA’S   ONLINE Ph.D. of NURSING DEGREE PROGRAMS

University of Missouri

About the School : This online school offers doctoral students a variety of nursing programs that can be completed in three years or less, depending on individual course loads. The University of Missouri has been recognized many times as a strong academic institution that supplies distance education students with state-of-the-art degree programs of all kinds, and these doctoral nursing degrees are no exception!

In order to take full advantage of the accelerated nature of these programs, the doctoral degrees listed below are designed for individuals who already have a master’s degree.

At Mizzou Online, nursing students are a part of a tight-knit, virtual, health science community that is both supportive and highly beneficial in building network connections and advancement opportunities in various industries.

Campus Location: Columbia, MO

• DNP – Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
• DNP – Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Nursing
• DNP – Nursing Leadership and Innovations in Health Care

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI’S   ONLINE DOCTORAL NURSING DEGREE PROGRAMS

Drexel University

About the School: Drexel University has an incredibly unique manner of delivering its online degree programs. Students complete their coursework in four 10-week quarters per year, which means that they can take more courses in a shorter period of time. That also means that the faster students can complete their coursework, the faster they can earn their doctorates and be at the top of their field!

Doctoral students have three options in which to major at Drexel University, each of which is just as challenging, rewarding, and academically/professionally supportive as the next.

DU students have only the highest levels of education that help advance their careers and give them the opportunity to learn from the best faculty who are seasoned practitioners in their field. Position yourself as a leader in your industry through this marvelous academic institution.

• Doctor of Health Science
• Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Management

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DREXEL UNIVERSITY’S   ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

What is an accelerated degree program?

The fastest online doctoral degree programs are ideal for working professionals who need the accolade, but may not have the time to put into a traditional on-campus degree program. 

Many courses within online doctoral programs can be completed within two years. Of course, not every Ph.D. or doctoral degree topic is available through accelerated programs. It will solely depend on the subject matter you are studying.  

How will attending an online accelerated degree benefit me?

Accelerated doctoral programs have several benefits besides the obvious, which is earning your degree much faster than the usual four to six years or more. 

By studying through an accelerated online program, you can save money on the cost of tuition. Most online programs are cheaper anyway. This helps you in two ways. First, you spend less on your doctoral program, and secondly, you can begin your career or obtain your promotion quicker; therefore, earning a higher salary quicker. 

Is there a disadvantage to accelerated doctoral degrees?

An accelerated online program, since it covers a lot rather fast, may demand more of your immediate attention to cover the fast pace of the online courses. When considering an accelerated online program, think about both the pros and cons before committing.  

Are all online distance learning programs considered “fast” degrees?

Not necessarily. Most online degree programs tend to go at the same speed as traditional classes do; however, the time spent may depend on your dedication to the program. Online classes often have deadlines to meet.

However, accelerated programs are noted as such, so you can expect to earn your master’s degree or doctoral degree in less time than usual. 

Is earning a doctoral degree online at an accelerated time period frowned upon?

In general, earning an accelerated online doctoral degree is acceptable; however, it’s worth researching before signing on to a program. 

For some doctoral degrees, such as those requiring extensive research and clinical work, you may want to invest in a full-time program. You may also want to consider if your program will require a dissertation or capstone project as well. 

Is an accelerated Ph.D. or doctoral program worth it? Will it save me that much time and money?

Whether or not an accelerated doctoral program is worth it depends largely on your individual circumstances and goals. It could save you time and money, depending on how quickly you are able to complete your coursework and dissertation. However, it could also be more costly and time-consuming, depending on factors such as the specific requirements of the program.

Additionally, it could be beneficial in terms of networking and preparation for a career in academia. Therefore, it is important to fully consider all factors before deciding to pursue an accelerated program.

For more information about online Ph.D. degree programs, see:

• Ph.D.’s That Pay: The Highest-Paying Doctoral Degrees
• Ph.D. Career Guides

• All Programs

Higher Education: Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy in Education

The Ph.D. in education with a concentration in higher education develops scholars who are able to conduct original research and interpret and communicate the results of such research through writing, teaching, practice, and other means.

At a Glance

Program results.

Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy in Education

–Higher Education

Career Objective

This program prepares graduates to pursue faculty careers or become senior administrators in colleges and universities.

Best Suited To

Highly qualified scholar-researchers who are interested in working in fields where the emphasis is on the production and communication of scholarship.

Program Type

Estimated length.

2-3 full years for coursework, plus dissertation research.

Application Deadline

The Ph.D. in education with a concentration in higher education is not accepting applications for fall 2025 but will accept applications for fall 2026.

About This Program

The School of Education and Human Development's Ph.D. in education with a concentration higher education program prepares graduates to pursue faculty careers or become senior administrators in colleges and universities. This is a research-based, full-time program that is offered in Charlottesville only.

Ph.D. students complete a program of study that includes at least 60 hours of coursework (excluding dissertation credit). Acceptance of up to 24 hours of transfer credit from a student’s master’s degree program or from post-master’s work completed at another institution is determined on an individual basis by the student’s advisor and the program head. The program coordinator may exempt students from required courses that they have already taken.

In addition to a required set of core courses in higher education (12 credits) and a minor in research methods (18 credits), the Ph.D. student is also required to complete elective coursework in higher education (12 credits). A content minor (12 credits), chosen with the advice and consent of the student’s advisor and organized around a theme or set of questions, is also required for the Ph.D. Courses for the content minor may be taken outside of the program and the School of Education and Human Development. Typical content minor concentrations include (but are not limited to) higher education policy, economics of higher education, politics of higher education, student affairs in higher education, organization and governance of higher education, and social foundations of higher education.

Ph.D. students are required to complete ten hours of mentored research per week each semester they are enrolled. Internship placements (paid, ten to twenty hours per week) can be arranged within the University of Virginia and at cooperating colleges and universities, other postsecondary agencies, or institutes. Research assistantships may also be available.

• Request Information

Program Overview

Admission requirements.

Admission requirements that apply specifically to this program are listed below:

• Statement of purpose (3-5 pages, speaks to reasons for pursuing the degree, including academic and professional goals)
• Writing sample (typically a paper written during Master’s program)
• Applicants are welcome but are not required to come to the School of Education and Human Development for an interview. To schedule an interview or campus visit, please reach out to the contact at the bottom of this page.

Visit our  Graduate Admission  page for the full admission process.

Graduate Admission

Application for admission is made to the School of Education and Human Development Office of Admission & Enrollment. For more information about the graduate admission process, please visit our Graduate Admission page.

To learn more about specific courses taken as part of the completion of this degree, visit the graduate record website. These webpages represent the official repository for academic program requirements. A link to these publications can be found in the Curriculum Information section at the bottom of this page.

Total hours required 72 Course credit hours required 60

Core (12 credits)

• EDLF 8665 Contemporary Issues in Higher Education
• EDLF 8654 Organization and Governance in Higher Education
• EDLF 8640 Inequality in Higher Education
• EDLF 8662 Politics and Education

Higher Education Electives (12 credits minimum) Coursework should be distributed between three categories (minimum 1 course per category)

• Student Experience/Student Development
• History, Philosophy, and Contexts
• Governance and Policy 

Research Courses (18 credits required)

Content Minor (minimum 12 credits) Students may take their content minor courses outside the program and the School of Education and Human Development, or they may choose courses from other School of Education and Human Development programs. The minor is meant to supply the student with substantive knowledge of and a theoretical grounding in an area that might be the topic of the dissertation. Courses to be taken for minor credit must be negotiated with and approved by the student’s advisor.

Dissertation (minimum 12 credits) EDLF 9999 Doctoral Dissertation (may be repeated for credit)

Course Descriptions

Information on courses that are part of the Ph.D. in Education-Higher Education curriculum can be found on the UVA graduate record website.

Interdisciplinary Doctoral Fellowship

There is a pressing need to address and eradicate racial injustice from institutions of higher education across the country. The most effective responses to this complex situation are informed by collaboration among scientists, social scientists and humanists. Mutual insights from psychology, sociology, public policy, and higher education are further enriched and deepened through their intersection with the study of anthropology, culture, economics, history, politics and spatial planning. Training researchers across these areas will advance the development of meaningful interventions in the higher education environment, refine our ability to assess these interventions quantitatively and qualitatively, and enhance our opportunity to engage public audiences on this topic. Doctoral students with this background will be better positioned to pursue research careers in academe and a variety of employment sectors.

Race and Inequality in Higher Education Fellowship Website

Although students will apply to the Ph.D. in Education-Higher Education program, more information regarding the fellowship can be found on The Graduate School of Arts & Sciences website.

Additional Program Details

Departmental fellowships and assistantships are provided to a select number of applicants each year. A typical funding package includes funding for nine months in a combination of wages and stipends, tuition and all mandatory fees, and funds to cover student health insurance costs. The University also offers a limited number of competitive fellowships for which students enrolled in Ph.D. programs may apply.

Visit the  Fellowships, Scholarships, and Awards  page for additional funding opportunities.

In 2024, the UVA School of Education & Human Development is ranked #8 for best graduate schools of education in the country by U.S. News and World Report.

The school is ranked #18 in higher education for graduate schools of education.

Higher Education News

Higher Education Alumni Reunion Celebrates Legacy and Community

Six decades of Higher Education alumni gathered to celebrate the program’s five founders and launch a fund supporting new community-building initiatives.

Program Faculty

Juan C. Garibay

• Associate Professor

Karen Kurotsuchi Inkelas

• Professor of Education

Brian Pusser

Christian L. Steinmetz

Current ph.d. students.

Below are some current students in this program. Prospective students are encouraged to reach out to current students via email to inquire about the program experience.

Jesse McCain

• Ph.D. Student

Danielle A. Moore-Lewis

Christian P.L. West

The following faculty proposed the theme for an interdisciplinary doctoral fellowship program and are committed to co-mentoring students. Please contact them with questions about the research cluster or to discuss your research interests.

• 434-924-3180
• [email protected]

Ridley Hall 286 PO Box 400265 405 Emmet Street S Charlottesville, VA 22903

Josipa Roksa

• 434-924-6528

PO Box 400766 445 Rugby Rd Charlottesville, VA 22903

• 434-243-6461

Ridley Hall 288 PO Box 400265 405 Emmet Street S Charlottesville, VA 22903

Admission & Enrollment

Engaging with prospective students and families on the process of applying to our school.

• 434-924-0742
• Ridley Hall 102
• Monday-Friday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

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• Doctor Education Leadership Innovation

Online Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership and Innovation

Admissions requirements.

• Ways to Save on Tuition
• Career Outcomes

Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation Overview

It’s time to take your education career even further. Become a change agent ready to make a difference in your workplace. Earn an EdD degree online in leadership and innovation.

• Prepare for leadership roles within all areas of education, including postsecondary, government, corporate, and nonprofit institutions.
• Take doctoral courses 100% online and complete a research project you can apply to your workplace, community, or area of expertise.
• Get the credit you deserve. Save up to $12,600 (or 33%) on tuition and graduate in 2 years by transferring up to 30 credits from your master’s.
• Find resources and support every step of the way, including a Faculty Advisor and Consultant, access to a comprehensive online library, writing support, and more.
• Gain leadership, diversity and inclusion, and research skills to create innovative and transformative learning environments.

Review College Scorecard data for this program .

See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

Purdue Global Is Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

The HLC ( HLCommission.org ) is an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Calculate Your Time and Cost

Estimate how much your prior learning credits can reduce your tuition and time to graduation.

What Courses Will I Take?

The 100% online courses for the EdD degree build your skills in leadership and innovation, with diversity, equity, and inclusion principles integrated throughout. Topics include diversity, equity, and inclusion; transformative learning; ethics and accountability; and more. Your studies culminate in an applied research project, which you can complete at your workplace or in your community.

Sample Courses

• Trends, Patterns, and Ethical Issues That Impact Education
• Research in Responsive Curriculum Design and Development Learning and Professional Practice
• Transformative Learning Environments
• Creativity, Innovation, and Intrapreneurship in Education

Program Requirements

1 semester credit hour = 1.5 quarter credit hours

A master’s degree in a related field is required to enroll in a postgraduate program. You will need to provide an official transcript that shows completion of your master’s degree from an accredited institution, though an unofficial copy may be provided during the application process. Refer to the University Catalog or speak to an Advisor to learn more.

Upcoming Start Dates

We offer multiple start dates to give you flexibility in your education, life, and work schedules.

Develop with Faculty Expertise and Support

Our faculty are pioneers and leaders in online higher education and are dedicated to supporting you on your educational journey. You will be assigned a faculty member who will guide you. A Faculty Advisor will review your master’s degree and discuss your career goals to ensure alignment of your EdD cognate electives.

During your final four applied research courses, a Faculty Consultant will be there to assist you in choosing a research project that focuses on a practical application in your field of expertise. The Consultant will help you with completing the Institutional Review Board process, choosing a methodology, collecting and analyzing data, and defending your research project.

Ways to Save on Time and Tuition

Purdue Global works with students to find ways to reduce costs and make education more accessible. Contact us to learn about opportunities to save on your educational costs.

Earn credit for prior coursework completed at eligible institutions.

Learn about federal financial aid programs available for many of our degree programs.

Learn about federal and state grants and loan programs that may be available.

Employees of Purdue Global partner organizations may be eligible for special tuition reductions.

Graduate tuition savings for military include a 17–30% reduction per credit for current servicemembers and, 14% per credit for veterans for graduate programs.

Earn credit for your military training. We offer credit for ACE-evaluated training and CLEP and DANTES examinations.

View the total cost of attendance for your program.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for administrators in postsecondary education is expected to grow through 2032. Opportunities for training and development specialists and instructional coordinators are also expected to grow during this timeframe. The online doctorate in education at Purdue Global equips you with the skills and knowledge to lead education-related organizations in a fast-changing landscape.

Average Salary

In Your State

General labor market and salary data are provided by Lightcast and may not represent the outcomes experienced by Purdue Global graduates in these programs. Purdue Global graduates in these programs may earn salaries substantially different or less than the amounts listed above. Salary and employment outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, education, and opportunities for employment that are outside of Purdue Global's control.

Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement.

Get to Know Our Faculty

Purdue Global faculty members are real-world practitioners who bring knowledge gained through the powerful combination of higher learning and industry experience.

Faculty members who have advanced degrees

Faculty members who hold a doctorate

Faculty publications in 2022–2023

Professional development hours logged by faculty in 2022–2023

Statistics include all Purdue Global faculty members and are not school- or program-specific calculations. Source: Purdue Global Office of Reporting and Analysis, July 2023. 2022–2023 academic year.

Join an Extensive Alumni Network

Upon graduation, you’ll become part of the Purdue Alumni Association, a vast and prestigious network of professionals. You’ll be able to make connections and access alumni benefits.

Download the Program Brochure

Download our brochure to learn more about the Online Doctor of Education in Leadership and Innovation and the benefits of earning your degree at Purdue Global. Prepare yourself for success with a doctoral degree in education.

Your Path to Success Begins Here

Connect with an Advisor to explore program requirements, curriculum, credit for prior learning process, and financial aid options.

* Estimated Graduation Date and Average Completion: Estimated graduation date is based on the assumption that you will enroll in time to begin classes on the next upcoming start date, will remain enrolled for each consecutive term, and will maintain satisfactory academic standing in each term to progress toward completion of your program. Completion time is based on a full-time schedule. Programs will take longer for part-time students to complete.

Credit for Prior Learning: Estimate based on maximum cognate open elective credits available in degree plan. The EdD program is a new offering and thus historic data on credit for prior learning are not available. Exact transfer amount may vary. All credits must be validated on official transcript(s) to be eligible for transfer. Purdue Global does not guarantee transferability of credit. See the University Catalog for the Prior Learning policy.

Employment and Career Advancement: Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement or career advancement. Actual outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience and opportunities for employment.

Postsecondary Education Administrator Job Growth and Openings: Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Postsecondary Education Administrators, www.bls.gov/ooh/management/postsecondary-education-administrators.htm . National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

Training and Development Specialists and Instructional Coordinators Job Openings: Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Training and Development Specialists, www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/training-and-development-specialists.htm ; Instructional Coordinators, www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/instructional-coordinators.htm . National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

• Best Online Doctorates In Education

Best Online Doctorates In Education Of 2024

Updated: May 15, 2024, 10:59am

If you’re a rising or mid-career education professional, you may have considered earning a doctorate in education, whether it’s a Ph.D. or a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.).

A doctoral degree can lead to higher earning potential and better job opportunities, including leadership roles in education, government, and both the nonprofit and private sectors. But earning that doctorate involves a multiyear commitment—and often a hefty price tag.

Earning your doctorate in education online can make this career step more accessible. Online degree programs often cost less than their on-campus counterparts, and they offer more flexibility, allowing you to keep working while you complete your studies.

To help jump-start your program search, we ranked the 10 best U.S. colleges and universities offering online doctorates in education according to metrics such as affordability, flexibility and student outcomes. Get the details on each program, learn why accreditation is critical for any degree and find out what to consider before committing to online study.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

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

• Over 3,868 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We ranked 149 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online education doctoral programs in the U.S. using 14 data points in the categories of student experience, credibility, student outcomes and affordability. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

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

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Experience:

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

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

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

We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 86% or higher.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Online Doctoral Degrees in Education

Should you enroll in an online doctorate in education program, accreditation for online doctoral degrees in education, how to find the right online doctorate in education for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online doctoral degrees in education, johns hopkins university, endicott college, university of central florida, alverno college, union institute & university, gwynedd mercy university, university of southern mississippi, ball state university, indiana university bloomington, liberty university.

Program Tuition Rate

$2,100/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

Baltimore, Maryland-based Johns Hopkins University offers a four-year Doctor of Education Program that emphasizes social justice, critical thinking and effective communication.

Designed to accommodate working practitioners, this part-time program is fully online. Students focus on a “Problem of Practice”—a topic of concern that they’ve encountered in their work—which becomes the subject of a culminating dossier-style dissertation project. This project is required for graduation and can take the form of an oral presentation, public-facing or scholarly writing, or a video.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on Your Schedule
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: $80
• Degree Credit Requirements: 48–54
• Program Enrollment Options: Part time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Foundations of education, applied research and evaluation
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: No

$1,113/credit

A private institution in Beverly, Massachusetts, Endicott College offers online Ed.D. and Ph.D. in education programs that combine research with practical field experience. The school’s Ed.D. program in educational leadership with a concentration in pre-K-12 education promotes an innovative mindset. This program features primarily online coursework along with residency weekends.

Endicott’s two research-based, fully online Ph.D. programs train students through coursework, mentorship and doctoral apprenticeships. The curriculum and teacher education concentration centers on teacher preparation and development and curriculum theory, while the higher education concentration delves into the administrative, financial, legal and sociocultural dimensions of present-day higher education.

• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 51–60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Advanced qualitative methods, current issues in educational policy
• Concentrations Available: Curriculum and teacher education, higher education, pre-K–12 education
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, in the Ed.D. in educational leadership program

$327/credit

The fully online Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction from the University of Central Florida in Orlando allows students to choose among 13 specialization areas such as curriculum and instruction, health and human performance, and educational psychology.

Core coursework covers topics like learning and motivation, organizational theory in education and identifying complex problems of practice. All specializations include a “Laboratory of Practice” that gives students practical leadership and research experience in a professional setting.

• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $31
• Degree Credit Requirements: ​​54–57
• Program Enrollment Options: Part time, full time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Evaluation of school programs; data, assessment and accountability
• Concentrations Available: Curriculum and instruction; education psychology; English language arts; exceptional student education; gifted education; global, international and comparative education; health and human performance; instructional design and technology; ; methodology, measurement and analysis; reading education; social science education; TESOL; K-8 mathematics education; signature research area (mindfulness and meditation in education)
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, a field-based “Laboratory of Practice”

$1,043/credit

Alverno College is a private, Catholic women’s college in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, that offers coeducational graduate programs. The college’s online Ed.D. in education offers three concentration options: K–12 leadership, higher education leadership and teaching and learning in higher education.

Each program places students in a cohort of fellow education professionals who proceed through the program in unison. Small class sizes foster personal and professional connections with fellow students and instructors. All three concentrations provide resources and support for the concluding dissertation from the first semester.

Although Alverno’s online Ed.D. is primarily online, students in all concentrations are expected to attend two on-campus weekend residencies.

• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54–57
• Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Equity in diverse educational settings, higher education curriculum and assessment
• Concentrations Available: Higher education leadership, K–12 leadership, teaching and learning in higher education
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, two on-campus weekend residencies

$795/credit

The Ed.D. Program at Cincinnati’s Union Institute & University emphasizes issues surrounding equity and social justice. Majors in pre-K–12 educational leadership and higher education leadership help students develop the skills needed to lead organizations and institutions toward real-world change.

Structured for maximum flexibility, the 100% online program comprises three terms per year (spring, summer and fall), with a virtual residency at the start of each. Union also allows eligible students to transfer up to 24 credits of previous graduate coursework for an accelerated timetable.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 66
• Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated, part time, full time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Schools, society and culture; education and social justice; research methods
• Concentrations Available: Educational leadership, pre-K–12; higher education leadership

$980/credit (in-state)

Gwynedd Mercy University (GMercyU), located outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, offers an online executive Ed.D. featuring four concentrations geared toward leadership positions in all levels of education (pre-K through college) and in education-related nonprofits and government. Coursework covers topics like assessment, education research and teaching, faculty management and community relations.

Each concentration takes about three years to complete and consists of online coursework, two on-campus residencies, field experience and one week of international study in Limerick, Ireland (costs of the latter are included in tuition).

The program provides a high level of dissertation support from the outset. GMercyU also offers an 18-month ABD variant for students who have completed Ed.D coursework but not the dissertation.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on a Set Schedule
• Application Fee: N/A
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Designing interventions and assessing outcomes, school law and policy in special education
• Concentrations Available: Teaching and learning in higher education, leadership in pre-K–12 schools and school districts, leadership in special education, leadership in higher education
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, on-campus and global residencies

$535/credit

The University of Southern Mississippi ’s fully online Ed.D. in higher education administration dispenses with a dissertation requirement in favor of a capstone research project. This project focuses on real-world problems students have encountered in their professional lives. Capstone courses are scheduled in parallel with the content courses so that students finish the capstone in tandem with their required coursework.

Synchronous classes take place weekly, typically in the evening, allowing students to form a genuine learning community with instructors and classmates. Applicants need a current educator license and at least three years of teaching experience.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn Around Your 9-to-5
• Application Fee: $60
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Public school finance, school law

$464/credit (in state)

Ball State University ’s online doctorates in education include three Ed.D. programs and two Ph.D. programs. These programs cater to educators and school administrators who aspire to higher-level teaching positions or leadership roles in policy or administration.

Located in Muncie, Indiana, Ball State’s programs are among the few online doctoral programs in the Midwest. Students may continue working full time through their programs and can choose a start date in the fall, spring or summer to accommodate their schedules. Some programs include an in-person field experience in areas like clinical work, college teaching or in-service training.

Note: The stated 91 to 97 credits may sound like a lot, but Ball State University encourages doctoral candidates in education to transfer credits from their master’s degrees. Students must complete a minimum of 48 credits through Ball State.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 91–97
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Statistical methods in educational and psychological research; behavior studies
• Concentrations Available: Elementary education, literacy/reading education; early childhood education, higher education, community college leadership, adult and community education
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, field experience

$500/credit (in state)

Indiana University Bloomington lets applicants choose among five online doctorates in education—an Ed.D. in literacy, culture and language education, an Ed.D. in instructional systems technology, and an Ed.D. in curriculum and instruction with specializations in art, math and science education.

All four programs require 60 credits and a successfully completed dissertation for graduation. Fully online and asynchronous, these doctorates serve working practitioners who want to teach at colleges and universities or advance to high-level administrative positions in those and other institutions (such as museums, in the case of the art education specialization).

• Application Fee: $70
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Theoretical issues in the study of language and literacies; research seminar in literacy, culture and language education
• Concentrations Available: Literacy, culture, and language education; science education; math education; art education; instructional systems technology

$565/credit

Liberty University is a private, Christian institution in Lynchburg, Virginia. The university’s online doctoral offerings in education consist of six Ph.D. and Ed.D. programs with a wide array of specializations available in areas like curriculum and instruction, higher education leadership and special education.

All courses are fully online and asynchronous, with each course lasting eight weeks to offer learners maximum flexibility. Ph.D. students conclude their course of study with a dissertation, while Ed.D. programs culminate in a research-driven capstone project, developed with a faculty mentor, that addresses a real-world challenge in the education field.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 54–60
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Advanced learning theory and research, history and future of special education
• Concentrations Available: Educational leadership, curriculum and instruction, educational psychology, elementary education, instructional design and technology, middle grades education, online teaching and learning, secondary education, special education, higher education administration, assessment and evaluation, organizational leadership, student affairs, educational law

An online doctorate in education can be a practical option if you need the flexible schedule and lower costs that come with remote learning. However, consider these key questions before you commit to earning a doctorate online:

• Is the program accredited? Before anything else, verify that an accrediting organization approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education has accredited any school or program you have in mind. Accreditation ensures that the program meets minimum quality standards and that future employers will recognize your doctorate.
• How do you prefer to learn? Consider which mode of online learning best suits your learning style. Synchronous delivery means you log into class at set times every week, whereas asynchronous delivery means your learning schedule is in your hands. Hybrid learning combines these two modes. Decide whether you benefit from more built-in structure or if you’re comfortable creating your own.
• Will distance and location affect your availability? Even though most of their coursework takes place online, some programs listed here require students to attend residencies or other activities on campus. Think about whether factors like travel time or the need for childcare or a pet sitter will affect your ability to fulfill in-person requirements.

Two kinds of accreditation are critical for anyone considering an online doctorate in education. Institutional accreditation confirms an educational institution’s overall quality and effectiveness. It attests to the school’s academic rigor, faculty qualifications, financial governance and student services, among other criteria.

Verify a school’s accreditation via the accreditation page on its website or use CHEA’s directory to research accredited schools, departments and programs.

Programmatic or specialized accreditation applies to specific programs or departments within an institutionally accredited school. In the U.S., the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) is the most prominent accreditor of degree programs in education. You can verify your program’s accreditation using CAEP’s online directory .

Consider Your Future Goals

Settling on the right doctorate in education program is a major decision that will shape your academic and professional trajectory. Before you start researching, ask yourself what you want to get out of your doctoral study. Are you interested in teaching, research, administration, policy or some other aspect of education? Defining your objectives can help you choose a program that fits your needs.

Next, you can begin assessing individual doctorate in education programs. Ph.D. programs often emphasize research and academia, while Ed.D. programs may focus more on practical applications in educational leadership and administration. Decide which type of program matches your career goals and learning preferences.

Finally, examine the student outcomes for any potential program. Consider where graduates have found jobs, how far they’ve advanced in their careers and what contributions they’ve made to the education field. Alumni networks and testimonials can give you insight into the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for the careers they want.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Tuition costs for the online doctorates covered on this page range from less than $20,000 to more than $110,000. Financing options differ by program, and your eligibility for assistance depends on your financial situation at the time you apply. To find out what types of aid you qualify for, you’ll need to do some research.

Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid programs. Online students are usually eligible for federal aid, but some programs may have specific eligibility requirements, so ask your school’s financial aid office for more information.

The financial aid office may be able to point you to some of the following resources as well:

• Scholarships and grants. Some doctoral students, including those enrolled in online programs, may qualify for these forms of gift aid. Grants and scholarships can be merit-based, need-based or specific to certain disciplines.
• Employer tuition reimbursement. If you’re currently working, ask your employer whether they offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorships. If your doctorate is relevant to your present role or a potential future role within the organization, some employers may be willing to cover at least part of your tuition costs.
• Fellowships. Occasionally doctoral programs will offer fellowships: financial support in the form of a stipend or tuition remission in exchange for research or teaching assistance.
• Student loans. Private loans from banks, credit unions or online lenders are a potential resource, but remember that private loans typically mean higher interest rates and less-flexible repayment options than federal loans.

Scrutinize all terms and conditions, ideally in writing, before you agree to any financing option, to avoid any potentially adverse effect on your financial status after you graduate.

Is it worth getting a doctorate in education?

The value of a doctorate in education depends on several factors, including career goals and financial considerations. If you suspect you’re not fully committed to several more years of academic study, explore other ways you could achieve your career goals in education, such as a professional certification or a specialized training program.

How long does a doctorate in education take?

Earning an online doctorate in education typically takes from three to seven years. Factors that can affect completion time include specific program requirements, whether the student already holds a master’s degree in education and whether they enroll full time or part time.

What is the difference between a Ph.D. and a doctorate?

The terms Ph.D. and doctorate are sometimes used interchangeably, but there are important differences between them. A Ph.D. is a research-oriented doctoral degree in a wide range of academic disciplines, such as the humanities, sciences, social sciences, education and engineering. A “doctorate” refers to a broader category that encompasses all types of doctoral degrees, including Ph.D., Ed.D., J.D., M.D. and Psy.D. degrees.

What is a doctoral degree in education?

A doctoral degree in education, sometimes known as a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) or a Doctor of Philosophy in Education (Ph.D. in Education), is the most advanced degree in the education field. It prepares teachers, researchers, administrators and other professionals to contribute to the education field through scholarly inquiry, critical analysis and the practical application of knowledge.

Jeff Tompkins is a writer and teacher of English as a Second Language living in New York City. He was born in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1967 and was educated at Brown University and University College London. His articles and reviews have appeared in CHA Review of Books and Films, the Brooklyn Rail, the Chicago Review of Books, PopMatters, Words Without Borders, and other outlets.

Earn Your NYU Doctorate in Leadership and Innovation.

Organizational change starts with an online doctorate in leadership and innovation from NYU. Leverage your knowledge and skills in transformational leadership roles to create new, sustainable solutions to systemic institutional challenges with your EdD.

Applications will open for the 2026 cohort in early 2025.

Our online leadership and innovation doctorate at a glance

Blending academic theory and real-world practice, NYU Steinhardt’s EdD in Leadership and Innovation is more than an online degree. It’s a unique program that provides working professionals with the tools to harness transformative change in their organizations and beyond.

three-day immersive residency at a global NYU site

hours per week

Average time commitment, including classes, will vary

total credits at the doctoral level

per credit hour

Based on 2024–2025 tuition rates

Minimum time to degree completion 1

EdD program overview

NYU Steinhardt’s EdD in Leadership and Innovation is more than a doctorate program. It’s a cohort of professionals, faculty , and distinguished cross-sectoral leaders from spaces such as:

• For-profit companies
• Higher education
• Nonprofit and philanthropic organizations
• Public and governmental organizations

We examine the most important issues cross-sectoral leaders face today and discover solutions that make change possible for tomorrow. We apply an academic lens to myriad sectors so students graduate from the doctoral program with the core competencies for impactful director and executive-level career options.

The research, analysis, writing, and critical thinking involved in students’ strategic design and implementation of a change management project are assets that students will bring to current and future employers.

The Problem of Practice

While many doctoral programs require students to complete a dissertation, NYU Steinhardt challenges students to examine and create an academically informed solution to a persistent organizational problem throughout the EdD program. This unique project is called the Problem of Practice (POP) , and it enables students to create real value for their organizations.

“We want students to have a collaborative experience in which they ignite a transformation in education from across sectors.” DR. NOEL S. ANDERSON FOUNDING FACULTY

Explore the cohort model design

When students work together, they leverage their unique leadership skills and professional experiences to develop new ideas and effect sustainable change. That’s why the cohort model is a defining feature of NYU Steinhardt’s EdD in Leadership and Innovation program. Traveling the curriculum together, students develop a common problem-solving language and discover new solutions to old challenges. Best of all, since courses run continuously through Summer and January terms, students earn their degree in 24–28 months, a duration that’s among the shortest in the country relative to other education doctorates.

Great minds, thinking differently

Our program unites experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds who share their unique perspectives on real-world challenges. By giving them the space to question, explore, and take risks, we foster innovation, resulting in new solutions to persistent organizational problems.

A collaborative system of support

For the duration of the program, faculty serve as mentors, supporters, challengers, and advocates, bringing decades of leadership experience to their partnership with students.

Built for immediate action

Students can complete their degree in as few as 24 continuous months, preparing them to create sustainable and scalable change at their organizations in their leadership roles.

Who is this program for?

The NYU online Doctorate in Leadership and Innovation is different by design. More than an educational leadership program, it’s a global cohort of cross-sector professionals motivated to create real change in their fields. Diverse leaders from the worlds of business, government, nonprofits, healthcare, and education seek out our program to be challenged to think beyond their areas of expertise – and to create new solutions and catalyze change in their organizations.

Current and former students’ employers include:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• The World Bank
• NYC Department
of Education
• The Millennium School – Dubai

Current and former students’ job titles include:

• Chief executive officer
• Chief learning officer
• Senior director of global security
• Head of diversity, equity & inclusion
• Program manager, behavioral health
• Military officer
• Director, office of educational assessment
• Adjunct faculty

Students represent a global cohort whose diverse voices are informed not only by the work they do, but from lived experiences around the world. 

The NYU EdD addresses the needs of full-time working professionals with a rigorous online Doctorate in Leadership and Innovation program that can be completed in as few as 24 months.

Three-day immersive residency

At the beginning of the program, your cohort will convene at NYU to meet, discuss your professional experiences, and examine the persistent challenges you face in your organizations. The residency will deepen students’ connections with peers and faculty and help serve as a foundation for the EdD curriculum.

Designed as a cohort model, our 42-credit curriculum includes 17 consecutive courses that can be completed in as few as 24 months. Students continue working while earning their degree, examining and solving a persistent challenge in their organization throughout the program.

Problem of Practice (POP)

Rather than completing a traditional dissertation, you will identify a persistent problem in your organization and examine it through an academic lens throughout the program, emerging with a thoroughly researched, actionable solution that creates real value for your organization.

Frequently asked questions

Finding the right EdD program to expand and leverage your leadership skills is essential to your success. To aid in this decision-making process, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about eligibility, tuition, courses, and more.

Admission requirements

To be eligible for the EdD in Leadership and Innovation program, you must hold both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. You must also have seven years of work experience in a leadership role. The GRE is not required for admission.

Learn how to solve institutional challenges with NYU’s EdD

1 Total time to complete the program may vary based on the number of credits taken each semester.

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35 Shortest Doctoral Programs Online [Fastest Doctorate & PhD Degrees]

Have you ever dreamed of getting your PhD or doctorate without spending ages in school? We’ve got you covered!

We’ve compiled a list of the 35 shortest doctoral programs available online. These programs can be ideal if you are looking to fast-track your education.

Online accelerated PhD programs are growing in popularity, but they vary widely in their graduation requirements. We’ve put together this guide showcasing online doctorate programs that require less than 60 credit hours to help you find the one that meets your needs.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics ( BLS ) reports that doctorate degree holders earn more than $19,000 a year on average than those holding a master’s degree only.

And because a doctoral degree is the highest level of academic achievement, you will also receive the accompanying scholarly respect as you make valuable contributions to your field and society as a whole.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Popular Online Doctoral Programs

Accelerated online doctoral programs offer a fast track to completing your degree, allowing you to finish sooner than traditional campus-based options. Popular fields of study where you can earn a doctorate in an accelerated format are listed below.

Click on the field of study that interests you to jump to that section of the guide.

• Business Administration
• Counseling & Therapy
• Criminal Justice / Homeland Security
• Healthcare Administration
• Human Services
• Information Systems / Technology
• Ministry / Theology
• Public Administration
• Public Health
• Public Policy

Accelerated degree programs offer the benefits of flexibility, efficiency, and the ability to complete your degree on a faster timeline, helping you reach your goals with less disruption to your personal and professional life.

Accredited Schools Offering the Shortest Doctoral Program Options

Methodology:  To decide which universities to include in our guide, we looked at several criteria, including the total number of credit hours required, accreditation, programs offered, and quality of online programs. Each of these universities offers accredited, accelerated online doctoral programs.

Completion time can differ for each student, but it’s exciting to know that some accredited schools now offer doctorate degrees that require fewer than 40 credit hours to complete! This can offer more flexibility and efficiency in your educational journey.

Before you apply, it’s important to carefully review your potential program’s tuition fees, graduation criteria, and classes offered.

Boston University

Boston University offers an accelerated Doctor of Occupational Therapy program that can be completed in 18 months. The program requires 33 to 37 credits and includes courses in evidence-based practice and health care management. It is fully online, allowing flexibility for working professionals. No dissertation is required, but a doctoral project is necessary.

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

Capella University

Capella University’s doctoral programs offered in FlexPath provide a unique, self-paced learning format that allows you to complete your degree at your own speed, potentially much faster than traditional programs.

Some programs even allow up to 24 transfer credits, further accelerating your studies. Whether pursuing a Doctor of Education or a Doctor of Business Administration, FlexPath provides the flexibility to advance your career on your terms.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado Christian University

Colorado Christian University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice program that can be completed in just over 2 years. The program requires 30 credit hours and includes courses in advanced nursing practice and leadership. It features a flexible online format and culminates in an evidence-based practice (EBP) project.

Colorado Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Concordia University Chicago

Concordia University Chicago offers an online PhD in Exercise Science. This asynchronous program can be completed at your own pace and allows students to accelerate their studies by completing them with fewer breaks. The program requires the completion of 69 credit hours, including a dissertation. Coursework covers topics in exercise science, research, statistics, and leadership.

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Duquesne University

Duquesne University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Clinical Leadership program that can be completed in 2 years. This 35-credit program focuses on clinical leadership, quality improvement, and evidence-based practice. It includes three unique residency experiences and culminates in a doctoral practice project.

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

Drexel University

Drexel University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program that can be completed in 2 years. The program requires 45 credits and includes comprehensive clinical requirements. Students must complete 1,000 post-baccalaureate clinical hours. The program also culminates in a DNP project, focusing on practical, evidence-based improvements in healthcare.

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

East Carolina University

East Carolina University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. It requires 36 semester hours, 1,000 clinical practice hours, and 1- to 3-day on-campus sessions at the beginning of each semester.

Coursework is focused on advanced clinical practice, leadership, and quality improvement. The program culminates in a DNP scholarly project designed to address real-world healthcare challenges.

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

Frontier Nursing University

Frontier Nursing University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program that can be completed in 18 months. The program requires 30 credits and 500 clinical hours. Coursework focuses on advanced practice, leadership, and evidence-based care. The program culminates in a quality improvement project, designed for practical, real-world impact.

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

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers two online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. The DNP in Advanced Practice Registered Nurse requires 39 credits and the DNP in Educational Leadership requires 48 credits.

Both programs can be completed in approximately 2.5 years and include courses in leadership, clinical practice, and evidence-based research. They both culminate in a scholarly project aimed at real-world improvements in healthcare and education.

Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd Mercy University offers an accelerated, online Executive Doctorate in Educational Leadership (EdD) program that can be completed in less than 3 years.

The program requires 54 credits and includes courses in strategic leadership, organizational change, and educational policy. Personal doctoral completion support is offered from day one, ensuring guidance and resources throughout your academic journey.

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

Hampton University

Hampton University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing program that can be completed in 3 years. The program requires 48 credit hours and includes 8-week courses in nursing theory, research methods, and health policy.

Students receive personalized support throughout their studies and must complete a dissertation to contribute original research to the field of nursing.

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

Indiana State University

Indiana State University offers an online, 37-credit-hour Doctor of Nursing Practice (Post-Master’s). Its curriculum is approved by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and fully accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc.

The program aims to develop new leaders in nursing and allows students to shape their education around their interests, expertise, and goals.

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers an online, accelerated Doctor of Nursing Practice to PhD program. By allowing 27 credits from a DNP degree to transfer, this program can be completed in half the time as a traditional nursing PhD, requiring only 33 semester hours to complete.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Liberty University

Liberty University offer several doctoral degrees. Many of which can be completed 100% online and may be accelerated. Courses are primarily offered in an 8-week format with no set login times, allowing you to complete your courses at your own pace. Fields of study offered include ministry, public administration, education, nursing, and counseling.

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

Monmouth University

Monmouth University offers a 36-credit, online Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The curriculum focuses on the translation, application, and evaluation of new science to create nursing professionals capable of creating innovative changes in the field.

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

National University

National University offers several online doctoral programs to fit the needs of busy schedules. The university offers 4-week, flexible online courses that can be completed at your own pace. Fields of study offered include public administration, education, criminal justice, and business administration.

National University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University offers several online and hybrid doctoral programs. These programs offer flexible, online courses and summer courses to help fit busy schedules and accelerate the time it takes to earn a degree.

Topics of study available include education, leadership, human services administration, nursing, organizational leadership, occupational therapy, and special education.

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

Penn State World Campus

Pennsylvania State University offers an online Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice—Leadership through its World Campus. The program requires 38 to 46 credits that can be completed in 2 years. Most courses are offered in an asynchronous format to better fit busy schedules.

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

Regent University

Regent University offers several online doctoral degree programs. The school’s generous transfer policy and 8-week course offerings allow many programs to be completed faster. Areas of study offered include ministry, business administration, nursing, communication, leadership, education, and counseling.

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

Seton Hall University

Seton Hall University offers a Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice that requires the completion of 31 to 33 credits. The program’s courses can be completed fully online. The curriculum prepares students for advanced practice roles, such as nurse practitioners, midwives, or anesthetists, or administrative and leadership positions.

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

Temple University

Temple University’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program requires 21 credits and may be completed in up to 3 years. It is designed for licensed occupational therapists who hold a master’s degree in occupational therapy or a related field. The program offers a flexible format to help working professionals advance their careers while balancing other commitments.

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

University at Buffalo

The University at Buffalo offers post-master’s, online programs for a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Each of these degrees requires the completion of 36 credit hours. Specializations offered include Child Health, Family, Psychiatric/Mental Health, and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, and Nurse Anesthesia.

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

University of Arkansas

The University of Arkansas offers a mostly online Doctor of Education in Education Leadership. The program consists of online courses with weekly synchronous meetings and three weekend seminars. It requires 42 credit hours and can be completed in 3 years. It prepares for leadership roles at a variety of education levels.

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

University of Bridgeport

The University of Bridgeport’s hybrid Post-Master’s Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program is mostly online and can be completed in 3 years. Designed for working professionals, all classes can be completed online except for two one-week doctoral summer residencies.

The University of Bridgeport is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

University of Florida

The University of Florida offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (Post-Master’s) program that can be completed online. It requires requires the completion of 35 credits and can be completed in 5 semesters. The coursework culminates in a final project designed to help you build clinical expertise and scholarship and could lead to publication or conference presentations.

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

University of Michigan – Flint

The University of Michigan – Flint offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice—Executive Leadership that can be completed with 30 to 34 credits. The curriculum adheres to the standards of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s “Triple Aim” criteria. The program is taken online and offers 7-days-a-week support.

The University of Michigan – Flint is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota offers an online Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice. This program is designed for nurses with master’s degrees in a specialty who want to take the next step into an advanced role. It requires the completion of 37 to 38 credits and one four-day session each semester. The program can be completed in 1 year, including a summer semester.

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

University of Missouri

The University of Missouri offers an online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership with optional on-campus opportunities. The program requires 54 credits. Typically, students take two classes a semester and graduate in 3 years.

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

University of North Carolina – Greensboro

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers an online PhD in Economics. This program can require as little as 45 credit hours and be completed in just 3 years with equivalent core master’s courses to transfer. This customizable program allows you to select labor, health, macroeconomics, technology, entrepreneurship, public, or environmental economic focus.

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

University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers an online Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice. The program requires 37 credit hours and can be completed in 5 semesters. The curriculum is designed for healthcare leaders, focusing on leadership in topics like nurse education, safety and ethics, organizational systems, and integrated leadership.

The University of North Dakota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (Post-Master’s) for practicing MSNs and APNs. It requires 44 credits and can be completed in 2 years. The curriculum is designed to create clinical experts with a focus on leadership, advocacy, and critical thinking.

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

University of Tennessee – Knoxville

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville offers several online doctoral programs, several of which require less than 50 credits. Topics of study available include industrial engineering, social work, and nursing. UT offers 24/7 mental health and wellness support for its online learners and synchronous and asynchronous classes to fit your scheduling needs.

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

University of Texas at Tyler

The University of Texas at Tyler offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice that can be completed primarily online. The curriculum consists of 39 credits and a scholarly project. The program can be completed in 3 years of part-time attendance. It focuses on evidence-based practice, systems change, leadership, and healthcare policy.

The University of Texas at Tyler is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University offers an online Ed.D. in Leadership and Learning in Organizations, requiring 54 credits, with transfer credits available for eligible students. The program can be completed in as little as 3 years, providing a rigorous yet flexible path for professionals aiming to lead in educational settings.

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

Wilmington University

Wilmington University offers several online, flexible doctoral programs. Three of these programs can be completed in 3 years or less: a Doctor of Nursing Practice, an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership, and a Doctor of Business Administration.

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

Accounting Doctoral Programs

If you enjoy working with numbers and financial concepts, you may enjoy delving deep into the field with a doctorate in accounting. You can earn this degree to prepare for a position as the chief financial officer of an organization, serve as an auditor, teach accounting at the college level, or oversee a team of accountants.

Doctoral accounting programs include classes in statistical analysis, financial research methods, and accounting theories. Available concentrations include Public Accounting and Forensic Accounting.

Online Doctorate in Business Administration

A doctorate in business administration can prepare you for leadership roles and skillful operation within global markets.

With this degree, you can pursue leadership positions in a variety of fields, including for-profit companies, non-profit organizations, and government groups. You can also work in education, whether in an administrative role or as a professor.

In preparation for such positions, your coursework will cover topics like quantitative and qualitative research methods, statistics, economics, management theories, and organizational behavior.

As a more exclusive degree than an MBA, a DBA can set you apart and help you land top leadership positions. Plus, the number of courses required is typically less, making it one of the shortest doctoral options.

Counseling Doctoral Degree Programs

A doctoral degree in counseling or therapy can equip you to help others work through their mental health or interpersonal struggles, and it can prepare you for leadership roles in counseling organizations.

With this degree, you can pursue careers in social work, private practice, or program administration. You may also tailor your education with concentrations like Counselor Education and Supervision, Art Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Addiction Counseling.

Coursework often covers topics like group and individual counseling, trauma response, ethical behavior, and diversity. Some universities require that you already be licensed as a counselor in your state before beginning their programs.

A PhD in Counseling can allow you to pursue a career as a college or university educator, an advanced counselor who trains and leads others, or a primary researcher for innovative studies.

If you’re currently a counselor and training other counselors or managing a counseling program are career goals of yours, a PhD in Counseling can make those goals a reality.

Criminal Justice & Homeland Security Doctorate Degrees

With a doctorate in criminal justice or homeland security, you can pursue a career in law enforcement, government, or private practice.

Your chosen career may provide opportunities to protect your community, conduct investigations, work with criminals, or collect intelligence. Often, doctoral graduates gain leadership positions, such as serving as a chief of police.

In pursuit of this doctoral degree, you’ll take classes in psychology, emergency and disaster situations, the justice system, and victimology.

Your program may offer concentrations like Terrorism, Criminology, Information Assurance, Security, or Emergency Management.

Doctorate in Education

Whether you want to teach in a classroom, serve in school administration, provide teacher support, or equip the next generation of instructors, a doctorate in education can help you achieve your goals.

Many graduates remain in the classroom and take on leadership roles. Others become principals, superintendents, professors, policymakers, curriculum specialists, or educational consultants.

While earning this degree, you’ll take classes in curriculum development, organizational leadership, student assessment, and education research. You could select an EdD concentration in an area like Special Education, Administration, Curriculum and Instruction, or Early Childhood Education.

A PhD in Education and an EdD are quite similar degrees. Both programs focus on education and can prepare you for leadership roles. PhD programs, however, are more research-based.

A PhD can be a better match for someone looking for a career in research, publishing, or teaching at the university level. It focuses less on application than an Ed.D., but the same types of careers are possible with either of these two degrees.

In terms of time to completion, the shortest program option is usually the EdD because there’s often no dissertation required.

Doctorate in Finance

People with strong math and money skills can be good candidates for pursuing a doctoral degree in finance. Many doctoral graduates take leadership positions with investment firms, large banks, hedge funds, universities, or government agencies. Some earn CEO or other C-suite roles.

A doctorate in finance can even prepare you for an international career. As you study for your degree, you’ll take classes in market analysis, global markets, financial planning, theories of finance, taxation, and leadership.

You can also choose to prepare for leadership roles in this field by pursuing a DBA with a concentration in Finance.

Doctorate in Healthcare Administration

Earning a doctoral degree in the field of healthcare administration can prepare you for leadership positions in healthcare and medical settings. With it, you can work in hospitals, nursing homes, medical records companies, political think tanks, government agencies, or universities.

In this discipline, you’ll take classes on global health, business, law and policies, finance, and organizational leadership. Many DHA programs offer concentrations like Public Health, Leadership, and Health Policy.

An alternative academic path is earning a DBA with a concentration in Healthcare Administration, which can offer a shorter route to a doctorate when no dissertation is required.

Doctorate in Human Services

Earning a doctorate in human services can prepare you for leadership positions in organizations that provide services and assistance for various groups of people. You may work in schools, clinics, community outreach programs, or non-profit organizations.

Some people who pursue this degree are licensed counselors who want to serve in a leadership capacity in a mental health practice. Others desire teaching positions in human services at the university level.

Common topics of study for this degree include grant writing, leadership, communication, financial management, and ethics. Some of the concentration options are Mental Health, Gerontology, Marriage and Family, and Leadership and Management.

A PhD in Human Services can prepare you for leadership positions or help you become a policymaker in public and human services.

A PhD in Human Services is a flexible degree. If you have an undergraduate or master’s degree in public service, including social services, child welfare, criminal justice, or healthcare, you may find this degree interesting.

Doctorate in Information Systems / Technology

Companies and organizations rely on systems to keep their data and records safe and accessible. To be at the forefront of this field, consider a doctorate in information technology.

With this degree, you can pursue work as a C-suite executive, a director in a tech department, a consultant, a leader in a government agency, or a strategist. You could also be well-poised to open your own company.

Your classes will equip you with knowledge about data collection and analysis, threat and risk management, policy-making, strategic planning, and research.

Doctorate in Management / Leadership

If you want to hold one of the highest roles in an organization, then earning a doctoral degree in management may be in order. Some with this degree become C-suite executives, such as chief operating officers. Others take the helm of school districts or universities or accept teaching or research roles in higher education.

While earning this doctorate, you will study leadership, ethics, consulting, decision-making, innovation, and research. Many students pursue concentrations in Technology, Homeland Security, Non-Profit Organizations, or Healthcare.

Alternatively, some schools offer DBA programs with Management concentrations. This often adds more flexibility and can be the shorter option when compared to a PhD, which usually requires a dissertation.

Ministry (D.Min.) or Theology Doctorate Programs

You can take your religious education to the next level with a doctorate in ministry or theology. After earning this degree, you can choose to put your education into practice in church, parachurch, counseling, or chaplaincy positions.

Coursework for this degree typically helps students grow not only academically, but also spiritually. Topics covered include leadership, spiritual disciplines, evangelism, social justice, and teaching methods.

Some doctoral candidates pursue a specialization. Options include Counseling, Worship, Chaplaincy, Spiritual Disciplines, and Urban Ministry.

A career as a professor is a possibility with this degree, or you could become a missionary leader or lead pastor at a church.

Many universities require students to hold professional ministry positions before admitting them into their programs.

Doctorate in Nursing (Doctor of Nursing Practice)

The top-educated nurses have their doctoral degrees in nursing practice. With this degree, you can continue offering direct patient care. For example, you might work as a specialty nurse in a clinic. You could also use your degree as a care coordinator, manager of a nursing team, policymaker, or nurse educator.

For RNs (Registered Nurses) who want to teach and train other nurses in academic settings, a PhD in Nursing is the best doctorate-level nursing degree to pursue. A PhD in Nursing can also prepare you for a career in research as a nursing scientist.

Coursework for this degree includes classes on information technology, finance, organizational leadership, safety, and healthcare law. Keep in mind that a doctoral degree in nursing is a terminal degree in the field and will not qualify you for a position as a physician.

DNP programs have gained a lot of popularity over the years and are designed for RNs who seek advancement while remaining practicing nurses.

Earning a DNP can prepare you for leadership careers in the nursing industry. It will teach you how to advocate for and make policies, manage and direct nursing programs, and ensure communities offer the best healthcare to citizens who need it the most.

Doctorate in Public Administration

Whether you want to work in a government agency or would prefer a position with a related organization, a doctorate in public administration can help you achieve your goals.

People with this doctoral degree often serve as politicians, lobbyists, non-profit directors, grant writers, administrators, or government affairs directors. If you want to go into government or politics, you could work at the local, state, or national level.

In this field, you’ll study human resources, public policy, budgeting, ethics, organizational leadership, and decision-making.

PhD in Public Health

With a doctoral degree in public health, you could choose to conduct research in the fields of epidemiology, environmental science, clinical trials, or academia.

Instead, you could choose to pursue leadership roles in public health as a safety engineer, a clinic manager, or an executive of a hospital system.

Classes for this degree cover health equity, data analysis, biostatistics, and healthcare policy. Concentrations are available at many universities. Common options include Health Education, Leadership, and Laboratory Science.

PhD in Public Policy

If you want to have a hand in creating or modifying the policies that shape people’s lives and communities, then a doctoral program in public policy can provide the education that you need. Graduates often work for government agencies, universities, think tanks, and various institutions.

While earning this degree, you’ll study ethics, decision-making, research, leadership, and cultural diversity. You’ll also practice identifying problems, gathering valuable data, and creating effective solutions.

You may focus on Urban Policy, Health Policy, Financial Management, or other areas of specialization.

Ph.D. in Psychology

A doctoral degree in psychology can help you understand how people think and the influence that thought has on behavior. Many people pursue this degree because they want to work as licensed clinical psychologists in schools, private practices, hospitals, or organizational settings.

Coursework for this degree covers counseling theories, psychopathology, culture, motivation and behavior, and cognition.

Programs leading to licensure typically require a lengthy supervised practicum.

What is the Difference Between a PhD and a Doctorate?

A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is just one type of doctorate, of which there are many.

Common doctorate degrees include:

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
• Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

Although the PhD is just one type of doctorate, it does have one distinguishing feature: the dissertation requirement. Nearly every PhD program requires adding to your field’s body of knowledge by performing original research on an approved topic of interest.

So, if you’re looking for fast-track doctoral programs, professional doctorates are generally a better choice.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate?

The length of time it takes to complete your doctorate will depend on the university and the type of doctoral program you attend.

On average, it takes 3 to 5 years to earn a doctorate.

The answers to the following questions can significantly impact completion time:

• Does the doctorate require a dissertation?
• How many classes can you take at one time?
• Are you transferring any credits into the program?
• How many weeks long are your classes?
• Is there a residency requirement?
• Is there a professional internship requirement?

As you can see, the best answer we can give you is: it depends.

To give you a ballpark, if you are working toward a professional doctorate (DBA, EdD, PsyD, etc.) and there is no dissertation requirement, you should be able to complete your program in about 2 to 3 years. Some people may be able to complete it in less time, and some may take longer. This is simply an average.

The dissertation requirement of Ph.D. programs can significantly impact your completion time. Generally speaking, it takes most doctoral students 3 to 5 years to complete a Ph.D.

What’s the Quickest Way to Earn a Doctorate Degree?

Just like accelerated online master’s programs , the shortest path to a doctorate will vary depending on your background, the program selected, and the university’s requirements.

The time it takes to complete a doctoral program online varies widely by university. For some universities, 3-year PhD programs are the norm. The official timeline on most university websites is about 3 – 5 years to complete a doctoral degree, but that’s just a general guideline.

If you are looking for the shortest PhD programs, you’ll want to select a program that does not require a dissertation. Dissertations are notorious for taking 2+ years to complete beyond the actual course requirements.

The following doctoral programs do not always require a dissertation: EdD, PsyD, DBA, DPA, and similar professional degrees. Most PhD programs require a dissertation (which means they’ll take longer to complete).

Another way to speed up your degree is by enrolling at a university that offers accelerated (8-week) doctoral courses. Since the courses take half the time to complete, you can finish your studies in less time.

Finally, you’ll want to pick a program that requires fewer credit hours. For example, one university may require 64 credit hours for an EdD while another may only require 42 credits. When looking for the shortest doctorate programs, you’ll want to examine the credit hour requirements closely.

This is also a great way to find the cheapest online doctoral programs. Generally, you’ll pay less tuition if you don’t need as many credit hours for program completion.

Are There Any One-Year Online Doctoral Programs?

When exploring the fastest route to a doctorate, it’s important to understand the available options and their typical timelines.

While some fast track schools offer the possibility of finishing a professional doctorate in 12 to 18 months, most accredited universities generally promote their doctorate programs as taking 3 or more years to complete.

These are some things to consider when looking for a faster doctoral program:

• Standard PhD duration : The usual time frame for completing a PhD is about 3 to 5 years. Occasionally, you might come across a 2-year PhD program, but these programs are quite rare.
• Other career-focused doctorates
• Select an online program with fewer credit hours required.
• Enroll in accelerated online courses , often structured as 8-week classes.
• Consider no-dissertation programs
• Look for programs that don’t require a GRE for admission.
• Capstone project as an alternative : Consider programs requiring a capstone project instead of a traditional dissertation. Capstone projects require research but generally take less time to complete than dissertations.

So, while 1-year online doctorate programs are not commonly available, especially from accredited institutions, these strategies can help you find a doctorate program that can be completed in a significantly shorter time.

Do All PhD Programs Require Students to Complete a Dissertation?

PhD programs usually require dissertations, but professional doctorates, such as a Doctor of Business Administration or Doctor of Education, generally do not require dissertations. Instead, they typically require capstone projects.

What Is the Fastest PhD Program Available?

The fastest PhDs available will be those that require 30 credit hours or less to complete. Once you’ve selected the fastest online degree that requires fewer credit hours than the norm, try to narrow your list further by selecting a university with accelerated PhD classes, which generally only take 8 weeks to complete.

If a PhD is not absolutely necessary, you will likely find it easier to find a professional doctorate program that meets these criteria, and it will likely not require a dissertation.

Having to fulfill a dissertation requirement can significantly increase the time it takes to complete your degree.

If speed is the most important factor, then a professional or applied doctorate, such as an online Doctor of Business Administration, Doctor of Psychology, or Doctorate of Education, will likely be the fastest option.

Looking for the Fastest Doctorate Programs?

When looking for the fastest doctorate degrees available, the first thing to consider is how much you’re willing to compromise in the name of speed.

Yes, there are accredited online doctoral programs that can be completed in less time than traditional, campus-based programs. The key is finding the shortest doctoral program offering the exact studies you seek.

In your search for efficiency, focusing on programs with short completion times and fewer course requirements can be a strategic choice.

Choosing a fast-track online doctorate program with minimal required courses, accelerated online classes, and no dissertation requirements can be a smart move toward efficiently achieving your academic goals. We invite you to start exploring accredited programs today with our program finder below.

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Berkeley School of Education

Ma and phd programs, about our ma and phd.

Earning a Master’s of Arts degree (MA) or doctorate (PhD) from Berkeley’s School of Education often leads to a career as an educational scholar and researcher in schools, colleges, and universities; non-profits and think tanks; and corporations.

In your application, we encourage you to describe your research interests as well as your desire to study with particular faculty in their application materials. If you wish to study educational topics outside those framed in the list below, we still encourage you to apply to earn your MA or PhD because we want innovative thinkers among us.

During the first semester, all students build a plan of study in consultation with their advisor(s). This plan is revisited, updated, and revised yearly thereafter.

What Doctoral Students Can Expect

During the first two years of study, the Berkeley PhD in Education introduces you to research on current issues in education, theories of learning, human development, and inequality, educational policy, and research methods. Students proceed through the program during the first two years in a cohort, taking core courses together.

The degree program’s structure ensures that you have a broad understanding of important topics in education and that you begin developing the research expertise needed to carry out independent research projects. You will also begin to take elective courses within and outside the BSE in your expected areas of expertise.

By the third and fourth years of study, you are expected to develop greater expertise in your research specialties in close consultation with your faculty advisors. You also take advanced seminars; engage in independent studies and research apprenticeships; and complete an oral exam.

The concluding part of your doctoral studies is preparation of your dissertation proposal and the research and writing of your dissertation.

What Master's Students Can Expect

As a Master’s student, you join the Berkeley community for one academic year, affiliating with a cluster of specialization. MA students often complete courses and their Masters projects during the summer. You are required to complete 24 semester units, which equals seven to eight classes, depending on how many units are awarded for each class.

You will have access to your faculty advisors, an MA Coordinator, and Student Services staff within the School of Education.

Learn more about the core requirements for earning a Master's in Education .

Our faculty’s interests span a range of critical topics and issues that are crucial for the attainment of educational equity and greater impact in schools and communities. The broad clusters of our faculty’s expertise are listed below. Click on any of the titles to see faculty who are engaged in this research.

Critical Studies of Race, Class, and Gender

• Critical Social and Cultural Theories
• Globalization, Immigration, and Migration
• Race & Social Inequality in Urban Education
• Domination and Resistance across Educational Settings
• Social Identities in Educational Contexts
• Language, Literacy, and Digital Media

Language, Literacy, and Culture

• Sociocultural aspects of language use and development across the lifespan
• Linguistic and cultural diversity in language and literacy education
• Intersections of disability and language and literacy learning
• Race and inequality in language and literacy education
• Bi/multilingualism and translanguaging in schools and communities
• Indigenous language maintenance and education in local and global contexts
• Literacy in a Digital Age
• Literacy in and out of School

Learning Sciences and Human Development

• Cognitive, Human, and Social Development 
• Mathematics and Science Education
• Teacher Learning and Education
• Technology and Digital Media

Policy, Politics, and Leadership

• Leadership in Educational Organizations
• Policy Analysis and Program Implementation
• Politics of Education Advocacy
• School Improvement

Social Research Methodologies

• Data Science
• Design-Based Research
• Measurement
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Statistics and Econometrics

School Psychology

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Doctoral programs.

The goal of the GSE PhD in Education is to prepare the next generation of leading education researchers. The cornerstone of the doctoral experience at the Stanford Graduate School of Education is the research apprenticeship that all students undertake, typically under the guidance of their academic advisor, but often with other Stanford faculty as well.

In this apprenticeship model, doctoral students are provided with a multi-year funding package that consists of opportunities each quarter to serve as teaching and research assistants for faculty members' courses and research projects. By this means, and in combination with the courses they take as part of their program, students are prepared over an approximately five-year period to excel as university teachers and education researchers.

The doctoral degree in Education at the GSE includes doctoral program requirements as well as a specialization, as listed below, overseen by a faculty committee from one of the GSE's three academic areas.

Doctoral programs by academic area

Curriculum studies and teacher education (cte).

• ‌ Elementary Education
• ‌ History/Social Science Education
• ‌ Learning Sciences and Technology Design
• ‌ Literacy, Language, and English Education
• ‌ Mathematics Education
• ‌ Science, Engineering and Technology Education
• ‌ Race, Inequality, and Language in Education
• ‌ Teacher Education

Developmental and Psychological Sciences (DAPS)

• ‌ Developmental and Psychological Sciences

Social Sciences, Humanities, and Interdisciplinary Policy Studies in Education (SHIPS)

• ‌ Anthropology of Education
• ‌ Economics of Education
• ‌ Education Data Science
• ‌ ‌Educational Linguistics
• ‌ Educational Policy
• ‌ Higher Education
• ‌ History of Education
• ‌ International Comparative Education
• ‌ Organizational Studies
• ‌ Philosophy of Education
• ‌ Sociology of Education

Cross-area specializations

Learning sciences and technology design (lstd).

LSTD allows doctoral students to study learning sciences and technology design within the context of their primary program of study (DAPS, CTE, or SHIPS).

Race, Inequality, and Language in Education (RILE)

RILE trains students to become national leaders in conducting research on how race, inequality, and language intersect to make both ineffective and effective educational opportunities. RILE allows students to specialize within their program of study (DAPS, CTE, or SHIPS).

Other academic opportunities

• ‌ Concentration in Education and Jewish Studies
• ‌ PhD Minor in Education
• ‌ Stanford Doctoral Training Program in Leadership for System-wide Inclusive Education (LSIE)
• ‌ Certificate Program in Partnership Research in Education
• ‌ Public Scholarship Collaborative

“I came to Stanford to work with faculty who value learning in informal settings and who are working to understand and design for it.”

Doctoral graduates were employed within four months of graduation

of those employed worked in organizations or roles related to education

For more information about GSE admissions and to see upcoming events and appointments:

To learn more about the Office of Academic Affairs:

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Online healthcare degrees, fastest accelerated online degree programs by degree level 2024, 4-week online course for medical coding and billing 2024, easiest phd and shortest doctoral programs online 2024, 20 most useless college degrees 2024, the quickest online master's degrees 2024.

Explore a range of online doctoral programs, including Ph.D. degrees, that offer accelerated paths, reduced residency requirements, and flexible online learning options.

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Many schools have rolling admissions, which means you can start a program in a few weeks!

Many degree programs fall under the title of doctorate, including Doctor of Philosophy degrees or Ph.D.

These Ph.D. degree programs are available in a variety of subjects and are intended to help students understand their specialty in the abstract and as a school of thought and theory rather than strictly as a practice.

Institutions that offer the best programs typically have exceptional funding, prestigious reputations, top-of-the-line research facilities, and abundant academic resources.

When selecting one of the shortest online doctoral programs or easiest online Ph.D. programs, you can access more info by visiting the links provided in each school description to ensure that you find the best program for you!

The easiest isn't always the shortest nor the shortest the easiest.

1-year Online Doctoral Programs | 18 Month Doctorate Programs Without Dissertation | Shortest Doctoral Programs Online and On-campus | Easiest Ph.D. to Get Online | Easiest PhD to Get (Traditional) | Free PhD Programs Online

Doctorate Degree vs PhD

• Ph.D. programs focus more on the theoretical and abstract aspects of their respective fields of study to understand it as a school of thought rather than just a practical application.
• Usual doctorate programs tend to be more practical in their study and focus on the application of knowledge rather than understanding more abstract perspectives.
• Ph.D. degrees are often offered in the same fields that have standard doctoral degrees available usually offered in fields such as engineering, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
• Doctorate programs are made up of advanced coursework, research projects, or thesis work almost strictly for practical application.
• Ph.D. and Doctorate degrees can often achieve the same ends and should be considered more or less equal in weight.

1 Year Ph.D. Programs Online

Find your match.

Program: Online DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice)

Credits: 36

Clinical Hours: 1,000

Key Features: Synchronous online classes, immersive clinicals nationwide, Family Nurse Practitioner certification eligibility

Chatham offers a 1-year online DNP program for working nurses seeking advanced leadership roles. The intensive curriculum covers care delivery models, quality improvement, evidence-based practice, and informational systems. The program features synchronous online classes and immersive clinicals at sites nationwide. Students collaborate virtually with renowned faculty.

Within 12 months, students complete 36 credits and 1,000 clinical hours. Graduates can sit for Family Nurse Practitioner certification. Nurses with a BSN can enter the accelerated program. Applicants need an active RN license. This online DNP empowers nurses to rapidly earn doctoral credentials while working. It prepares graduates to advance as clinical, executive, research, and teaching leaders.

Program: Online PhD in Grief Counseling

Department: Ethereal Studies

Key Features: Asynchronous learning, live classes, dissertation completion in one year

Breyer State Theology University offers a 1-year online PhD in Grief Counseling through its Department of Ethereal Studies. This accelerated program is tailored for working professionals seeking to advance their bereavement therapy career. The curriculum covers advanced grief counseling theories and interventions for diverse populations. Students gain expertise in areas like trauma-informed care, healing rituals, afterlife philosophies, and continuing bonds.

The online format combines asynchronous learning with live classes in an intimate cohort overseen by esteemed faculty. Students complete their dissertation in just one year. Graduates earn a PhD from BSU's pioneering metaphysical psychology department. This flexible doctoral program prepares students to progress their counseling practice or pursue academic research roles.

Programs: Various online doctoral degrees

PhD Tracks: Philosophy of Islamic Studies, Business Administration, Education, Finance, Grief Counseling

Professional Doctorates: Divinity, Sacred Music, Spiritual Psychotherapy

Key Features: Video lectures, discussions, immersive retreats

American International Theism University (AITU) offers one-year online doctoral degrees for working professionals. Accelerated PhD tracks include Philosophy of Islamic Studies, Business Administration, Education, Finance, and Grief Counseling. Professional doctorates prepare leaders in Divinity, Sacred Music, Spiritual Psychotherapy, and more. The online programs blend video lectures, discussions, and immersive retreats. Curricula explore metaphysics, ethics, and wisdom traditions across faiths.

Within 12 months, students complete doctoral coursework, exams, and a dissertation overseen by distinguished faculty. Applicants should hold a relevant master's degree and background in theological studies or social sciences. These intensive online doctoral programs allow students to rapidly earn advanced credentials through flexible study with global peers. Graduates pursue roles driving innovation in spiritual care, research, and leadership.

Online Doctorate Programs That Might Interest You

15-18 month doctorate programs without dissertation.

Program: Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Credits: 33-37

Courses: 10

Key Features: Fully online, 7-week accelerated courses, no dissertation required

Boston University offers a Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree program that can be completed in 18 months. Students may concentrate on various areas and can choose what else they would prefer to learn to complete their credit requirements.

This is a fully online degree program that accelerates each semester's worth of class to take only seven weeks to complete with new courses starting every September, January, and May. The program is available to doctoral students who have completed an accredited occupational therapy program. There are foundation courses, which include evidence-based practice and health care management, but no dissertation is necessary whereas a doctoral project is still required.

Program: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Credits: 33

Key Features: Online program, no GMAT/GRE required, no clinical hours

The Maryville University of St. Louis offers a Doctor of Nursing (DNP) program that is available online. The DNP program requires students to complete a total of 33 credit hours, including 18 to 20 months for completion. Many students in the online DNP program are working as nurses in the field, and this affords them a flexible program that allows many students to achieve their academic goals while active in the healthcare industry.

This course is an online program that does not require a GMAT or GRE. It may have a waiting list, but unlike other programs, it does not require clinical hours. The Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership is an online program that offers personal coaching throughout the process. It is a cohort learning method with online education, and students might need a bit more time to complete it.

Offerings: Higher Education Leadership, Educational Leadership, Nursing Practice, Health Administration, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy

Key Features: Live online classes, self-paced learning, virtual labs and simulations

Maryville University offers online doctoral degrees tailored for working professionals. Programs available fully online include Doctorates in Higher Education Leadership, Educational Leadership, Nursing Practice, Health Administration, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy. The EdD programs prepare graduates for leadership and faculty roles in education. The DNP equips nurses for advanced clinical and executive practice.

Health Administration focuses on healthcare organizational development, quality, and finance. Licensed PTs and OTs can pursue clinical doctorates while working. Courses blend live online classes and self-paced learning. Programs leverage cutting-edge virtual labs and simulations. With a relevant master's degree, students can earn an accredited doctorate from Maryville University online to advance their careers.

24 Month Doctorate Programs

Program: Transitional Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy

Key Features: Fully online, part-time program, workplace application credits

One option is to earn an online Ph.D. in Nursing, while another option is to earn their Medical Degree at the same time as their online Master of Business Administration , but the Transitional Doctoral Program in Physical therapy may be earned in 24 months fully online. This part-time program provides online learning courses to help licensed physical therapists enhance their skills and gain access to higher career options. Some credits can be earned through workplace applications.

Offerings: EdD tracks in Organizational Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, K-12 Leadership, plus psychology, nursing, business, and more

Key Features: Asynchronous and live virtual classes, personalized faculty support, robust digital resources

Grand Canyon University offers over a dozen online doctoral degrees tailored for working professionals. GCU provides online EdD tracks in Organizational Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, and K-12 Leadership. Other doctorates cover psychology, nursing, business, and more. Programs blend asynchronous and live virtual classes focused on applying concepts. Specialized tracks allow customization.

Online students get personalized faculty support and access to robust digital resources. Within 2 years (or less), learners complete coursework, residencies, exams, and a dissertation to earn an accredited doctoral degree from GCU. With flexible and practical curricula, GCU enables busy professionals to obtain doctorates fully online and further their careers.

Program: Doctor of Education

Credits: 54

Key Features: Fully online, 8-week courses, no dissertation required

Liberty University offers a Doctor of Education degree program that can be completed fully online. The minimum time to earn the degree is about 30 months for completion of all 54 credits. The courses are each 8 weeks long and no dissertation is required. The Doctor of Education degree program provides a curriculum that focuses on developing innovative programs, as well as a capstone project.

Offerings: School Improvement, Nursing Education, Professional Counseling and Supervision, Higher Education Administration

Key Features: Synchronous evening classes, self-paced learning, experiential projects

The University of West Georgia offers several online doctoral degree options for working professionals seeking advanced training. UWG provides online doctorates in School Improvement, Nursing Education, Professional Counseling and Supervision, and Higher Education Administration. The EdD programs focus on data-driven leadership strategies and developing administrative expertise.

The DNP prepares nurses to improve care systems and patient outcomes. Coursework blends synchronous evening classes and self-paced learning for flexibility. Experiential projects allow application to careers. With a relevant master's degree, students can earn an accredited doctorate fully online from UWG to advance as leaders in their field.

Shortest Ph.D. Programs Online and On-campus

Obtaining a Ph.D. can be a long-term commitment and many doctoral programs can take over five years to complete. To help busy working professionals looking to jumpstart their careers and those looking to begin their careers at a high level, this list serves as a simple reference guide, compiling information on some of the shortest doctoral programs in the country.

These online degree programs operate in full-time, part-time, fully online, or hybrid formats.

• Baylor University - online EdD in Learning and Organizational Change, 54 credits, 36 months
• Maryville University - online Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online DNP), 20 months, no GRE or no GMAT requirement
• University of Dayton - online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership for Organizations, 36 months, 60 credits
• Capella University - online Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision, 0 max transfer credits, 60 credits, CACREP accredited
• Franklin University - online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), 58 credit hours, transfer up to 24 hours of previously earned credit, 36 months + 1 year for dissertation
• Walden University - online Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology, up to 53 credits, fast-track option, earn MPhil at the same time
• Frontier Nursing University - online Doctor of Nursing Practice, MSN with DNP, 675 clinical hours for MSN plus 360 additional for DNP
• Boston University - Online Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy, PP-OTD, 33-37 credits
• University of Florida - online MSN to DNP, 35 credits, five semesters
• Gwynedd Mercy University - Accelerated Executive Doctorate of Education ABD (All But Dissertation) Completion Program, online EdD , 27 credit hours, 18 months
• Duquesne University - Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), 35 credit hours
• The College of St. Scholastica - Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy, online tDPT, 16 credits
• Liberty Univesity - Doctor of Ministry, online DMin, 30 credit hours, 24 months
• University of Florida - Doctor of Nursing Practice, MSN to DNP, 35 credits, 5 semesters
• University of North Dakota - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice, online DNP, 36 credit hours, 5 semesters
• Seton Hall University - Doctor of Nursing Practice, online DNP, 31+ credits for post-MSN students, 73-79 credits for post-BSN students
• Regis University - Doctor of Nursing Practice, online DNP , 28-33 credit hours, 8-week terms
• Georgia State University - Curriculum and Instruction EdD, Educational Leadership EdD, on-campus EdD, 54 credit hours
• Bowling Green State University   - Technology Management, web-based Ph.D., 66 credit hours
• Hampton University - Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management, online Ph.D., 60 credit hours
• Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Safety Sciences, online Ph.D., 54 credit hours
• East Carolina University   - Doctor of Nursing Practice, hybrid online DNP

Easiest Ph.D. Programs Online & On-Campus

To be sure, at the Ph.D. level, no program could be considered "easy," but there are certain programs designed to be "easier" than others. Generally, education, humanities, and the social sciences are considered the easiest fields in which to pursue degrees.

With that in mind, our list of the easiest Ph.D. programs includes schools and programs that offer significantly reduced residency requirements, accelerated courses, credit transfers, and integrated dissertation colloquia.

The rankings below display schools with accreditation from at least one of the six regional accrediting agencies , and all offer at least one virtual Ph.D. degree. Accredited online Ph.D. programs are also organized according to the U.S. News and World Report and Forbes Magazine rankings.

Easiest Online Ph.D. Programs & Online Doctoral Programs

• WALDEN UNIVERSITY - 156 Online Doctoral Programs
• REGENT UNIVERSITY - 81 online doctorate degrees, 6 Ph.D. programs online
• HAMPTON UNIVERSITY - 5 online doctoral degree programs
• UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA - 8 online doctoral degree programs
• UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI - 4 online doctorate programs
• COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY - 3 online Ph.D. programs, 1 online doctoral program
• UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA - 12 online Ph.D. programs, 3 online doctoral programs
• NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY -  10 online doctorate programs, 8 online Ph.D. programs
• LIBERTY UNIVERSITY -  19 online Ph.D. programs, 16 online doctorate programs

Easiest Ph.D. to Get (Traditional)

The easiest doctorate degree can vary depending on your interests, skills, and strengths. However, here is a list of doctorate degrees that are mentioned as potentially less difficult to obtain.

Focus: Business development, design, methods, tools, and professional ethics

Career Path: Advanced positions in business

Specializations: Human behavior, social psychology, counseling supervision, specific therapy approaches

Career Path: Advanced opportunities in healthcare and social services

Skills Developed: Research skills, data analysis in criminal justice

Career Paths: Emergency management, forensic departments, information security sectors

Focus: Enhancing educational research skills, preparing for leadership roles

Career Paths: Administrative positions in universities, professional departments, elementary and secondary schools

Topics Covered: Policies, ethics, group management, hospital administration, advanced patient care

Career Path: Leadership roles in the business aspect of the medical industry

Focus: Policies, legislation, rights, ethics, and protocols for serving within human services organizations

Career Path: Leadership positions in organizations helping underserved populations

Areas Covered: Financial management, system management, conflict management, human resources management

Application: Practical skills applicable to various industry settings

Skills Developed: Managerial and strategic planning skills for administrative roles

Coursework: Ethics of management, public policy, strategic planning, performance management, employee evaluation, economics of administration

Focus: Advanced training and research skills for the healthcare industry

Emphasis: Leadership and management roles, innovative thinking, communication mastery

Focus: Theory, ethics, research, and practice in public service programs

Skills Developed: Analyzing and proposing policies to improve communities and societies

Combination: Research skills with professional practice

Career Paths: Addictions counselors, applied researchers, professional consultants, clinical psychologists

Focus: Divine and spiritual traditions through academics, research, and religious studies

Career Paths: Professors, social service managers, private school teachers, directors of religious education

Please note that the difficulty of a doctorate degree can vary depending on individual circumstances, personal strengths, and the specific requirements of each program. It's important to thoroughly research and consider your interests, skills, and career goals before deciding on a doctorate program.

Free Ph.D. Programs Online (Fully Funded)

According to Best-Universities.net .

• Brown University Fully-funded Ph.D. program in computer science
• University of Houston-Downtown Full scholarship program for online doctorate
• Devry University Comprehensive scholarship program for online degrees
• University of Maryland-Baltimore County Full scholarship program for online undergraduate and graduate degrees
• Wilson Community College Full scholarship program for community college students
• University of Leeds Up to 30 fully-funded online Ph.D. programs
• University of the Witwatersrand Comprehensive scholarship program for online bachelor's or master's degrees
• The University of Texas at Dallas Full scholarship program for online bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees
• University of Strathclyde Full scholarship program for online undergraduate or master's degrees
• Emory University Fully-funded online Ph.D. program in economics
• New York University Fully-funded Ph.D. program in childhood education
• University of Pennsylvania Fully-funded online Ph.D. program in educational leadership and policy

If you're not looking for an accelerated program , the list below displays some of the best traditional Ph.D. programs in the country, according to Study.com.

Best Ph.D. Programs in the U.S.

Guide to Online Doctorate Degrees

Fewer positions requiring this advanced level qualification and reduced competition for such job opportunities among job seekers are some of the reasons behind the few doctoral graduates.

With technological advancements in almost all areas of life, acquiring education, a significantly advanced level of education has become more accessible. Graduate students now do not have to attend physical classes to pursue their dreams of developing and advancing their skills.

You can pursue your doctorate in the comfort of your home or even your office.

There was a 20% growth in students granted doctorate degrees between the 2009/2010 and 2019/2020 academic years, according to NCES. This growth has been attributed in part to online Ph.D. programs and the streamlining of modern universities.

Online Ph.D. programs are a relatively newer idea and online schooling in general has greatly increased access, flexibility, and convenience.

Students typically complete these degrees soon after completing a Master's degree in the same area. As such, and with bachelor's degrees being necessary stepping stones, students can expect their journey from primary school to a Ph.D. to take about nine years, barring any accelerated tracks and failed classes.

Cost of an Online Doctoral Degree Program

When choosing any doctoral degree program, it is crucial to evaluate the costs and salary after attending. Even though online Ph.D. courses may usually be cheaper than on-campus learning, secondary schooling is rarely cheap and not every field will allow you to make back the cost in a reasonable amount of time.

Tuition, materials, technology, transportation, housing, and groceries should all be factors brought into account when deciding whether or where to attend, and in what field you can find the most success and fulfillment.

Below are the annual tuition rates of different institutions as reported by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

Choosing an Online Doctoral Degree Program

Since doctoral programs require considerable investments of money and time, it is important to consider every factor before deciding on a school or program. Take some time to consider the marketability, cost, and difficulty of each program and your own interest in the subject. To reach your career and educational goals, do your best research.

How Long Does it Take to Get a PhD

• The length of a Ph.D. program can vary, but it typically takes 3 to 6 years to complete.
• A Ph.D. program typically takes 5 to 6 years in the United States.
• A Ph.D. program typically takes 3 to 4 years in the UK and many other European countries.
• The actual length of a Ph.D. program can be influenced by many factors, including the nature of the research, the student's progress, the advisor's availability, and funding considerations.
• Some students may finish in less time, while others may take longer.
• Part-time Ph.D. programs are also available, which can take longer to complete.

Here is a table summarizing the length of Ph.D. programs in different countries:

Top 50 Doctorate-Granting Institutions in 2022

This table presents data from the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NSF 24-300) on the top 50 doctorate-granting institutions in the United States, ranked by the total number of research doctorate recipients in 2022. The data is broken down by total doctorates awarded and the number awarded to male and female recipients.

Note: Includes doctorate recipients who did not report sex. Tied institutions are listed alphabetically.

Source: National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, Survey of Earned Doctorates.

Top 30 States by Doctorate Recipients in 2022

This table presents data from the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NSF 24-300) on the number of research doctorate recipients for the top 30 states or locations in 2022. The data is broken down by total doctorates awarded, sex, and field of study (science and engineering vs. non-science and engineering).

Note: Includes doctorate recipients who did not report sex. S&E stands for Science and Engineering.

National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, Survey of Earned Doctorates.

Frequently Asked Questions about Doctoral Programs

A Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) is typically research-oriented and focuses on contributing new knowledge to a field through original research. It's often pursued by those interested in academia or research careers.

A professional doctorate (e.g., Ed.D., D.B.A., Psy.D.) is more practice-oriented and focuses on applying existing knowledge to solve real-world problems in a specific profession. It's often pursued by those looking to advance in their professional careers.

The duration can vary, but typically:

• In the U.S., Ph.D. programs usually take 5-6 years to complete.
• In the UK and many European countries, it's often 3-4 years.
• Part-time programs can take 6-8 years or more.

The actual time can depend on factors like research progress, funding, and individual circumstances.

Common requirements include:

• A master's degree (some programs accept exceptional students with only a bachelor's)
• High GPA (often 3.0 or higher)
• GRE or GMAT scores (some programs are waiving this requirement)
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose or research proposal
• CV or resume
• Writing sample (for some programs)

Specific requirements can vary by program and institution.

Yes, it's possible to work while pursuing a doctoral degree, especially with the increasing availability of part-time and online programs. However, balancing work and study can be challenging due to the intensive nature of doctoral research.

Many full-time Ph.D. students work as teaching or research assistants within their university. Some programs, especially professional doctorates, are designed for working professionals and offer more flexible schedules.

Funding options can include:

• Fellowships and scholarships
• Teaching or research assistantships
• Grants (from the university, government, or private organizations)
• Employer tuition assistance
• Federal student loans
• Work-study programs

Many Ph.D. programs offer full funding packages to their students, which may include tuition waivers and stipends.

Online PhD Programs for You

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Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The Doctor of Philosophy program in the College of Education prepares students for careers in research or scholarly inquiry and teaching at the college level. The program consists of: (1) continuous research, (2) courses in education and related fields designed to develop a comprehensive academic basis for future work in research and teaching, and (3) teaching and other related experiences tailored to individual needs and career goals. Each student works closely with an advisor and a faculty Supervisory Committee to select courses, topics of research and inquiry, and teaching experiences. These three areas will combine to: (1) convey deep scholarly knowledge of education and a specialty outside of education (2) promote a broad understanding of various methods of inquiry in education and develop competency in several of those methods, (3) impart broad knowledge of theory and practice in two supportive cognates, and (4) promote excellence as a college teacher. Our Ph.D. alumni have positions at national research universities, at region and local universities, in community colleges, K-12 school settings, laboratories, foundations, agencies, and private businesses.

Culturally Sustaining Education

Educational policy, organization and leadership, language, literacy and culture, leadership in higher education, learning sciences & human development, measurement and statistics, school psychology (ph.d.), science or math education specialization, social and cultural foundations, special education doctoral, teacher education and teacher learning for justice.

15 Fastest Online Ph.D. and Doctorate Degrees

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: September 20, 2024 , Reading time: 30 minutes

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Many professionals pursue doctorate degrees because of their fairly strong employment prospects ! About 70% of the 2020 new PhD holders reported “definite commitments” from prospective employers from academia and industries.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, doctorate holders earned the highest median weekly pay ($1,885) and the lowest unemployment rate (2.5%) among bachelor’s and master’s degree holders.

But we all know that the path to higher education isn’t all roses! Candidates in PhD and doctorate programs take between four and eight years to earn their degrees, and spend $114,300 on average . With the cost of attendance comes student loan debts that can reach $108,400 on average, and it can be as high as $159,625 for PhD holders .

No wonder individuals interested in enjoying the benefits of a doctorate look for the fastest programs and fields of study!

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Fastest online ph.d. and doctorate degrees, doctor of audiology.

Hearing issues have adverse effects on an individual’s quality of life and, thus, preventing and addressing these issues is crucial. This is where audiologists come in through their expertise in diagnosing, preventing, and treating hearing issues. Note that hearing issues also affect balance and, thus, audiologists empower their patients to enjoy daily activities better. 

Aside from prescribing medical devices, audiologists also provide counseling services for their patients in dealing with their hearing and balance issues. Their job also includes providing reliable and relevant information to family members, caregivers, and the community. 

Audiologists must possess a Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree and a state license. The AuD degree can be earned in four years, but accelerated three-year programs are the fastest. The shortened curriculum in accelerated programs doesn’t mean lower academic quality – it just means the courses have been compressed aside from being fast-paced. Students must be 100% committed to earning the degree within the three-year timetable. 

Students progress through the foundational courses in:

• Physiology,
• Normal and Abnormal Communication Development,
• Pharmacology in Audiology,
• and Diagnosis and Treatment of Hearing and Balance Issues. 

The curriculum also includes internships in hospitals, clinics and outpatient facilities where students develop their clinical skills in healthcare settings. Students observe licensed audiologists in action and have direct patient interactions through patient consultations. The hands-on experience strengthens the theories learned in the virtual or blended classroom. 

Audiologists find gainful employment in healthcare settings and other industries. Industrial audiologists, for example, prevent hearing issues by developing safety protocols while educational audiologists work with children with hearing issues. 

Median Pay: $81,030 per year

Job Outlook: 16% 

Job Opportunities: Audiologists 

Best Schools: Western Michigan University , Salus University , and University of Cincinnati  

Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering

The typical time-to-completion among PhD in Biomedical Engineering is 5-6 years, but accelerated programs decrease it to 3-4 years. Of course, your time-to-completion will be determined by your commitment, enrolment status and compliance with the scheduled milestones. The third-year mark, for example, is typically dedicated to the completion of the dissertation, fulfillment of teaching and a research assistantship, and compliance with remaining academic requirements.

Accelerated programs are hands-on learning experiences for candidates who must be 100% committed to their post-graduate studies, including their research and teaching assistantships. Candidates progress through the fast-paced, rigorous programs of study that integrate didactic coursework with world-class independent research. Close collaborations with faculty members in faculty-led research projects are also typical, and these allow candidates to develop their interdisciplinary skills and establish professional networks.  

Admission requirements vary, but most accelerated programs require applicants to possess a master’s degree in biomedical engineering or other related fields. Minimum GRE/GMAT scores and cumulative graduate GPA are also common requirements:

• a personal statement,
• letters of reference,
• and statement of purpose.

Admission is competitive in accelerated PhD in Biomedical Engineering programs due to their above-average rigorousness, not to mention that universities benefit from a track record of high year-to-year completion rates.  

Candidates usually undergo several stages in their PhD journey, from acceptance into the program to pass the qualifying exams, making their dissertation proposals and passing the approval stage. Teaching and research assistantships are required, too, which pays for part of their tuition cost and develops their teaching and research skills. 

Holders of the PhD in Biomedical Engineering degree work in the healthcare, industrial and commercial manufacturing, engineering sectors, and academia. 

Median Pay: $106,919 per year 

Job Outlook: 6% 

Job Opportunities: Biomedical engineering director, biomedical engineering educators and researchers, and biomedical research scientists  

Best Schools: University of North Dakota and Boise State University  

Doctor of Business Administration

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a professional doctorate and terminal degree in business administration that enables its holders to become business professors, researchers and professionals. Many programs offer it as a standalone degree, while others offer it with technology-related fields of study. Holders of the DBA degree may represent themselves with the academic title doctor and attach the post-nominal DBA letters, too. 

Like its equivalent PhD in Business Administration, the DBA degree is also considered a research degree by the National Science Foundation (NSF). As such, its holders are qualified to perform research projects related to business topics and perform management roles in government agencies, corporations and nonprofit organizations. Many occupy senior-level positions, such as organizational development directors and chief executive officers. 

Candidates in non-accelerated DBA programs earn 54-60 credits in 3-5 years. Accelerated programs with compressed coursework enable candidates to earn the degree in three years, but it’s crucial to hit the milestones as scheduled. Many, if not most, students don’t have external employment but work as teaching and/or research assistants. 

Accelerated programs may offer human resources, international business, and global supply chain management concentrations. Choosing a concentration may involve taking three additional courses and the core coursework. Due to the multidisciplinary nature of business administration, the DBA coursework includes:

• business research,
• statistics,
• international business
• and accounting. 

On-site residences or internships may be required in addition to the culminating project. The latter requirement can be a dissertation or a special project highlighting the candidate’s DBA-related insights and interests. 

Median Pay: $146,600 per year 

Job Outlook: 12%

Job Opportunities: Business researchers/fellows and university professors 

Best Schools: Baker College , University of Wisconsin Whitewater , and Bellevue University  

Doctor of Education in Community College Leadership

Community colleges are crucial to the American education system because of their inclusive approach resulting in diverse student bodies, among other roles. But there are unique challenges, too, in their management that demands appropriate formal education and training in addition to work experience. The EdD in Community College Leadership degree is the best for the education and training part! 

Candidates in accelerated EdD in Community College Leadership programs learn essential competencies identified by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC):

• communication,
• organizational strategy,
• collaboration,
• fundraising,
• institutional finance,
• community college advocacy,
• and resource management.

Candidates become qualified for leadership positions at two-year colleges upon graduation with their knowledge and skills. Their future roles and responsibilities include overseeing the academic curriculum, student support services, business operations, and human resources of community colleges. 

Many EdD in Community College Leadership programs is standalone programs, while many are specializations within the EdD generalist programs. Both, nonetheless, are excellent educational preparations for roles as presidents, provosts and deans at community colleges. 

Between 50-66 post-master’s credits are required in accelerated programs, meaning a three-year time-to-completion. The curriculum consists of core and concentration courses, electives and dissertations; the first two years may be spent on the academic aspect, while the third year is for the dissertation. The core courses include:

• qualitative and quantitative research methods,
• advanced learning theory,
• leadership and ethics,
• and program development and evaluation.

Fiscal responsibility, student and faculty relations, and workforce training are common courses. 

Median Pay: $241,727 

Job Outlook: 8% 

Job Opportunities: Community college presidents, academic deans, and admissions directors 

Best Schools: New Jersey City University , Old Dominion University , and Mississippi State University

Doctor of Computer Science 

Individuals interested in gainful employment in the fast-growing computer and information technology field may want to consider the Doctor of Computer Science (DCS) degree! With a projected growth rate of 13% (2020-2030) and the highest median pay at $126,830 per year, it’s a degree that’s well worth the time, energy and money. With public and private organizations recognizing the need to use digital technologies in data management, DCS degree holders will have plenty of work waiting for them. 

Non-accelerated online programs have a six- to seven-year time-to-completion, but accelerated programs cut the time in half! Candidates can complete an accelerated program in three years but must be fully committed to achieving the milestones as recommended. 

Many programs have a minimum of 60 post-master’s credits to complete before the DCS degree is awarded. The first two years focus on the didactic coursework, while the last year is spent on completing the dissertation. The fast-paced coursework is rivaled only by the fast-paced progress through the dissertation, which usually takes 2-3 years for completion. But fast-paced doesn’t mean rushed and reduced quality – candidates must still meet high academic standards! 

Note that the DCS degree isn’t equivalent to the Doctor of Science in Computer Science (DSc) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science! The DCS degree is suitable for professionals whose main career goals include making meaningful contributions to the existing body of theories, principles and practices of computing. The DSc and PhD degrees are more suitable for professionals who want to teach in academia as professors and researchers. 

Median Pay: $126,830 per year

Job Outlook: 22%

Job Opportunities: Computer scientists, computer and information systems managers, and computer network architects 

Best Schools: University of North Dakota , Aspen University , and Colorado Technical University  

Doctor of Philosophy/Doctor in Grief Counseling

Licensed psychologists pursue either a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or a Doctor in Grief Counseling for career advancement and personal fulfillment. With the degree, their public or private practice can be expanded in terms of types of patients and professional scope resulting in more impact. Indeed, a doctorate in grief counseling degree holders has numerous paths possible, from becoming well-recognized published researchers to well-respected grief counselors with pioneering therapy techniques. 

Many also pursue successful careers in academia, such as university professors training future psychologists and grief counselors. The opportunity for scholarly activities is also a come-on for candidates in doctorate programs. There’s also the possible increase of their median annual salary by as much as 50%! 

A doctorate in Grief Counseling can be earned in 1-5 years. But a 3-year time-to-completion is more realistic if you want a good work-life-studies balance. In accelerated programs, students tackle a compressed curriculum that includes:

• research methodologies,
• and psychotherapy techniques.  

Candidates also gain a professional understanding of grief and bereavement in several situations, from job loss to divorce and death. Psychological first aid is an essential topic, too, along with loss and trauma. Since an entire community can also grieve, candidates also learn about community grief and crisis counseling, emphasizing multiculturalism and group counseling. 

Grief counselors work in a wide variety of settings, including the public and private sectors. Many are in private practice, while others are in hospitals, mental health facilities, and retirement communities, as well as the military. As professors and guidance counselors, being in academia is also a lucrative career path. 

Median Pay: $51,340 per year

Job Outlook: 15% 

Job Opportunities: Grief counselors, family and marriage therapists, and mental health counselors 

Best Schools: Regent University , Breyer State Theology University , and American International Theism University

Doctor of Health Sciences

The Doctor of Health Science (DHS) is an academic terminal degree for professionals interested in leadership positions in health sciences, including healthcare delivery systems. The leadership positions cover:

• clinical practice,
• applied research,
• professorship,
• conceptual,
• critical thinking
• and analytical thinking skills. 

The ideal candidates for DHS programs are allied health professionals, who must be either duly licensed or certified in their respective professions and want to advance their careers. Healthcare managers, practice clinicians, health science teachers and professors are common in accelerated DHS online programs. 

Candidates develop the knowledge and skills vital in finding solutions to issues based on evidence, applying the principles and best practices in healthcare management, and building their positive impact on healthcare systems. The DHS coursework then includes courses on:

• leadership,
• advocacy and ethics;
• strategies for improving healthcare services;
• organizational strategies for healthcare leadership;
• and equity, inclusivity and diversity in healthcare systems. 

Internships, research and teaching assistantships, and even community immersions are part of the graduation requirements in DHS programs. These hands-on experiences strengthen the candidates’ professional proficiency and dissertation, the typical culminating requirement. The dissertation is undoubtedly the most challenging aspect of accelerated DHS programs, which have a three-year time-to-completion due to the extensive research necessary. 

Upon graduation, DHS degree holders can pursue leadership positions that allow them to initiate positive changes in their workplaces and the healthcare industry. The opportunities to shape or influence public healthcare policy, support best practices in clinical settings, and conduct breakthrough research are also in their future. Many also become top-level healthcare managers, consultants, and community advocates. 

Median Pay: $104,280 per year

Job Outlook: 32% 

Job Opportunities: Healthcare administrator, health sciences researcher, university professor 

Best Schools: George Washington University , Drexel University , and Bay Path University

Doctor of Philosophy/Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies

Both PhD and EdD in Leadership Studies degrees emphasize the interdisciplinary characteristic of effective leadership in public and private organizations. These degrees are also versatile in the career paths that these can be applied in, from academia to business and industry, including healthcare, engineering and social work.

Many holders, particularly the PhD in Leadership Studies degree, also become prolific researchers-scholars whose leadership studies advance its theories, principles and practices. 

The coursework is divided into:

• core and major courses,
• concentration courses,
• dissertation-related courses,
• internships,
• research/teaching assistantships,
• and community activities.

The typical curriculum has a specific sequence, particularly for cohort-based accelerated programs, meaning candidates should ideally hit their milestones based on the recommended timeline. Completing the degree in three years is, thus, possible. 

The courses usually include leadership-centric topics like leadership theories and intra- and inter-organizational leadership; applied leadership courses like communication, management, law and ethics; and policy development and implementation.

As doctorate degrees, there’s an emphasis on generating original, perhaps thought-provoking, research with the dissertation as the culmination project. Leadership research courses, such as intermediate and advanced research methods, statistics, and experimental design, are part of the curriculum for this reason. 

Graduates can write, present and defend their research projects in a scholarly manner; demonstrate a proficient understanding of leadership studies in the personal, organizational and international perspectives; and foster positive relationships as part of their leadership. 

Median Pay: $97,500 per year

Job Outlook: 8%

Job Opportunities: School administrators, university professors, executive coaches, and leaders 

Best Schools: Ashland University , Hofstra University , and Gonzaga University  

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Candidates in Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs are planning on pursuing advanced leadership roles in nursing but with less focus on research. The DNP degree has a more clinical focus, while the PhD in Nursing degree has a strong research emphasis. Thus, DNP degree holders have more hands-on, direct patient interactions that enable them to make an observable impact on their patients. 

Between the DNP degree and the PhD in Nursing degree, the former has a shorter time-to-completion, too. DNP degree programs have 1-4 years time-to-completion, while PhD programs typically require 3-5 years of full-time commitment. Accelerated DNP programs have three years time-to-completion with the assumption of full-time studies, no failing grades, and hitting the milestones on time. 

The DNP degree opens opportunities for jobs as advanced practice registered nurses (APRN), among other leadership positions. The DNP degree is currently considered the minimum educational requirement for entry-level APRNs in many healthcare institutions. Since it’s also a terminal degree, there’s no higher educational level available for aspiring APRNs, too. 

Accredited online DNP programs must cover eight essentials identified by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, namely: 

• Scientific foundation for practice 
• Organizational and systems leadership concerning systems thinking and quality improvement 
• Essentials for evidence-based practice including analytical methods and clinical scholarship 
• Information technology and systems for the improvement of quality of services and transformation of the healthcare system 
• Healthcare policy and advocacy 
• Improvement of patient and population health outcomes through interprofessional collaborations 
• Population health and clinical prevention concerning improvement in national health 
• Advanced nursing practice 

These essentials are covered through didactic courses, internships, clinical experiences, and a culminating project. Direct care and indirect care concentrations are also offered. 

Median Pay: $117,670 per year

Job Outlook: 45% 

Job Opportunities: Nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists and nurse midwives 

Best Schools: Gwynedd Mercy University , University of Texas Arlington , and Maryville University  

Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists perform vital roles in improving the quality of life among patients with illnesses, injuries, and disabilities that prevent them from enjoying everyday activities in a normal manner. Their expert assistance enables patients to recover, improve, develop and maintain occupational skills necessary for daily working and living. Their patients include people with cerebral palsy, autism and Down syndrome, and patients who have physical disabilities caused by illness and injury, such as stroke. 

The minimum educational requirement for occupational therapists is a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree in addition to their license. The OTD degree is a post-professional degree, meaning candidates usually have a master’s degree, a license in occupational therapy, and sufficient work experience. The standard OTD doctorate programs take 3.5 years to complete, but accelerated online programs cut the time to completion in half! For example, Boston University’s OTD program can be completed in 18 months. 

The coursework for post-professional OTD programs includes:

• clinical kinesiology,
• psychology,
• and therapeutic techniques in contemporary practice.

Concentrations are available in some programs, with prime examples being mental health and productive aging. 

There are also PhD in Occupational Therapy or Occupational Science programs, which are research-centric in contrast with the practice-based approach of OTD programs. The PhD programs are more suitable for professionals who want careers in research and academia, which may take up to six years. 

Occupational therapists must also possess soft skills to provide excellent patient care and work well with others. Adaptability, effective communication and interpersonal skills, and patience and compassion are desirable traits. 

Median Pay: $86,280 per year

Job Outlook: 17%

Job Opportunities: Occupational therapists, rehabilitation counselors, and university professors and researchers in occupational therapy

Best Schools: Boston University , Quinnipiac University , and St. Catherine University

Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership

While there are differences in the curriculum requirements among PhD in Organizational Leadership programs, their candidates develop the right knowledge, skills and mindset vital in their success as leaders. The combination is the result of core, major and elective coursework on the one hand and significant internship, research, and teaching experiences. These experiences are considered among the culminating projects that include an approved, publication-worthy dissertation. 

Most online doctorate programs have 3-5 years time-to-completion depending on the candidate’s enrolment status. But accelerated programs enable students to earn the degree in three years, tops, with the first two years for coursework and the last year for the dissertation. There are even shorter programs, but these can be extremely challenging in course load and other demands. 

A master’s degree in organizational leadership or related discipline, GRE scores, and letters of recommendation are common admission requirements. Many programs also require applicants to present relevant work experience, even research experience, because of the research focus. In-person and virtual interviews are also used to determine an applicant’s suitability for the program of study and its learning outcomes. 

Once accepted, candidates in PhD programs tackle interdisciplinary coursework that covers:

• organizational design and leadership,
• law and finance in education,
• and ethics in leadership.

Learners also gain the theoretical framework and practical foundation for organizational leadership in government agencies and for-profit and nonprofit organizations. 

Concentrations are offered in many programs, too, including missional leadership, educational leadership, and healthcare leadership. International consulting and entrepreneurial leadership are popular among business-focused candidates. 

Median Pay: $121,220 per year

Job Outlook: 9%

Job Opportunities: Human resource managers, organizational development consultants, organizational development directors, and 

Best Schools: Regent University , University of Arizona , and National University  

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Online Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs have a three-year time-to-completion, on average, but full-time students can earn the degree in less time. Accelerated programs can compress the coursework and internship components even more! But students must be aware of the increased demands on their minds and bodies in accelerated programs, starting with full-time engagement. 

DPT curriculum varies between programs, but just the same, students learn the essential knowledge and skills vital for their professional success. Said success starts with passing the licensure exam for physical therapists, but there’s no end to it either, as licensed physical therapists must have a passion for lifelong learning. Physical therapists with sufficient work experience may also pursue board certification in their desired clinical specialty, such as geriatrics, sports or orthopedics. 

Diagnostic imaging, pharmacology, and motor control are among the career-specific courses in DPT programs. Research methods, including statistical analysis, are also discussed in-depth in preparation for a culminating research project, if necessary. Students apply their learning in life sciences and promote research in physical therapy. 

Residency programs are typical experiences among physical therapists after they graduate from DPT programs. These are typically one-year programs that provide residents with additional hands-on training, which comes in handy for specialization. 

During their practice, licensed physical therapists assist people with illnesses or injuries that affect their movement and pain management capacity. Preventive care, treatment and management, and recovery and rehabilitation among patients form a significant part of their healthcare services. Their job also includes interprofessional collaborations with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses and the family members and caregivers of patients. 

Median Pay: $91,010 per year

Job Outlook: 21% 

Job Opportunities: Physical therapists, sports clinical specialists, and geriatric specialists  

Best Schools: University of North Carolina , University of Southern California , and Northeastern University  

Doctor of Philosophy/Doctor of Social Work 

Candidates in Doctor of Social Work (DSW) programs prepared for clinical careers with direct client interactions and clinical research (i.e., practice-based). For candidates in PhD in Social Work programs, their training emphasizes teaching and theory, meaning their focus is on original, if not innovative, multidisciplinary research. 

Both DSW and PhD in Social Work candidates can choose a concentration if their respective programs offer specializations, such as:

• advanced clinical practice,
• social work education,
• and mental health.

However, note that DSW candidates usually undergo more advanced internships than their PhD counterparts, mainly because of their practice-based focus. 

Candidates can take 4-6 years to complete a standard online program, but there are programs with an accelerated format, meaning candidates earn the degree in three years. The compressed coursework is complemented by the shorter periods between milestones, particularly in the dissertation phase. Both standard and accelerated programs have 45-60 post-master’s credits for candidates to complete. 

Regardless of their differences, both programs enable candidates to further develop their knowledge and skills in making a positive difference in others. Along with deeper insights into social work and its corresponding theories and principles, candidates also learn leadership and advanced research methodologies. The typical courses include:

• public policy issues,
• financial management in social work,
• psychopharmacology
• and psychopathology. 

Holders of a doctorate in social work degree may also choose to pursue continuing education for career advancement and personal fulfillment. Possible paths include an MBA that will enable effective leadership in nonprofit settings, a doctorate in psychology, and advanced certifications related to social work. Pursuing a license, such as a licensed master of social work, is also popular. 

Median Pay: $69,600 per year

Job Opportunities: Community service administration managers, clinical social workers, and university professors or researchers 

Best Schools: Baylor University , University at Buffalo , and University of Pennsylvania  

Doctor of Philosophy in Sports Management

The typical candidates in PhD in Sports Management programs have a keen interest in the business aspects of sports and recreation and relevant educational attainment and work experience. Their extensive training includes principles and practices in sports organizations and teams’ day-to-day operations and overall direction. 

These include:

• overall administration,
• finance and accounting,
• human resources,
• law and ethics,
• and consumer behavior.

The coursework may include:

• sports facility and event management,
• sports communication,
• and public policy concerning the sports and recreation industry. 

While a master’s degree in sports management may be an advantage, it isn’t a must-have requirement in most online accelerated programs. But it pays to possess relevant work experience in sports management since it will add a deeper dimension to your rigorous doctorate training! 

Concentrations may be offered by colleges and universities, thus, allowing candidates to gain specialist skills that can be used in niche aspects in sports and recreation. Examples of specializations are marketing, finance and facilities and events management. 

While PhD programs have a research-centric approach, some PhD in Sports Management programs may have other culminating projects instead of a dissertation. These include practical capstone projects identifying issues and offering viable solutions to current sports concerns. 

Candidates also develop the important qualities that will contribute to their success as sports coaches, researchers and directors. Effective communication, analytical and problem-solving skills are prioritized, followed by decision-making, organizational and motivational skills. Add creativity and thinking out of the box, particularly for marketing purposes, and you’re on your way to success! 

Median Pay: $141,490 per year

Job Outlook: 10% 

Job Opportunities: Sports promoters or sports agents, marketing directors, and university professors 

Best Schools: Troy University and East Tennessee State University

Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management

The field of technology management is concerned with the design, development and applications of technological products and services to numerous organizations. These products and services are intended to deliver excellent value, increase effectiveness and efficiency, and promote the organizations’ respective goals. These technological products and services include software programs, hardware devices, and communication and network systems specific to the organization’s needs. 

Candidates in PhD in Technology Management programs must have an interdisciplinary perspective since technology management draws from diverse fields. These include:

• computer science and information technology,
• business intelligence and analysis,
• strategic and innovation management,
• and user experience design.

More often than not, organizational issues can be resolved by combining several disciplines and using them in creative ways. 

The extensive PhD training is more practice-based, but it also has a strong research component. Candidates prepare for leadership positions in for-profit and nonprofit organizations, government agencies, community institutions, and academia. Their doctorate-level skills include research methodologies and instructional processes, thus, their professional value in these sectors. 

Concentrations are offered in some programs, too, with popular ones including:

• digital communication systems,
• construction management systems,
• and manufacturing and quality systems.

Regardless of concentration, candidates are usually required to submit an approved dissertation and undergo an intensive residency/internship. Candidates gain hands-on experience while also strengthening their professional network, a crucial aspect of landing viable jobs. 

Median Pay: $151,150 per year

Job Outlook: 11% 

Job Opportunities: Business information manager, network administrator, and e-business developer 

Best Schools: Indiana State University , Bowling Green State University , and National University  

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What does it mean to be an online phd and doctorate program.

One-year doctorate programs are rare because very few fields of study lend themselves well to such a short-term period. The more common time-to-completion for the fastest doctorate degrees is 2-3 years, significantly shorter than the 4-8 years average. These programs will demand more of your time, effort, and energy and demand more in terms of academic background, thesis exposure, and work experience than the typical programs. The common formats are: 

• Accelerated programs usually have fast-paced coursework with courses spanning 6-8 weeks and multiple start dates and required full-time enrollment for all terms, including summers. Candidates must meet the scheduled milestones to meet the time-to-completion. 
• Practical doctorate programs don’t have a dissertation requirement but require candidates to engage in “dissertation in practice.” Since there’s no dissertation, candidates can complete the graduation requirements in less time; the typical dissertation can take at least a year to complete. 
• Programs that allow master’s degree credits to be transferred to the doctorate program in the same or similar field mean faster completion time, too. 

But these programs don’t have much wiggle room for error – candidates shouldn’t fail their classes, or they won’t meet the scheduled milestones on time. 

Are these fastest online doctorate programs as good as the standard programs?

Yes, these accelerated online doctorate programs provide world-class post-graduate education and training! Accelerated and standard programs have valid accreditation, credentialed faculty members, and a contemporary curriculum that meets educational standards. When they earn their degrees, candidates in these programs reap the rewards of their labors, particularly improved employability and quality of life. 

Of course, candidates must also make deliberate decisions and actions that will maximize the potential of their doctorate degrees! These include immersing themselves in the didactic coursework, applying the lessons learned in their workplaces, and ensuring that their dissertations, or other culminating projects, have a unique value. 

What factors must affect a student’s choice of the fastest online doctorate programs?

• The accreditation must be from one of the regional accreditation agencies that, in turn, should be recognized by the US Department of Education. These include the Higher Learning Commissions, Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and WASC Senior College and University Commission. This must be the first thing to look for when considering online programs! 
• The program must have applied coursework, meaning that candidates have opportunities to apply their doctoral-level knowledge and skills in real-world situations. The applied coursework is of particular importance to working professionals, most candidates in post-graduate programs. 
• There must be a wide range of satisfactory academic resources and support available to the candidates. Pursuing a doctorate isn’t a walk in the park, and there’s no sense in doing it alone! Ask about the quality of academic resources available, such as faculty advisors, library systems and access, and assistantships and financial aid. 
• The curriculum should comply with the current standards and reflect the current needs of the industry where the doctorate will be applied. Take a look at the courses and their descriptions to determine their suitability for your career goals. 
• The faculty members must possess top credentials in their field of expertise. Look at the program’s website where faculty members are featured, perhaps going the extra mile to research the faculty members’ professional profiles. 

Read students’ actual experiences in the program and reach out to the faculty members. The latter is strongly recommended for future doctorate students, too, since it’s vital to their success to choose a faculty advisor as early as possible. Most programs require candidates to choose and connect with their respective faculty advisor on the first term. 

Even if you’re planning on an online program, you may want to make an on-campus visit, if only once, before you submit your application for admission. The on-campus visit will open your eyes to the universities’ unique academic environment, including its research resources and facilities. 

What factors affect the time to completion in these accelerated programs?

The primary factors are: 

• The approach and methodology used for the dissertation is significant factor in the time-to-completion since it’s the culminating requirement. Most programs allot 1-3 years for the dissertation phase due to the complex and conscientious nature of writing a post-graduate research project. Accelerated programs, however, typically set a one-year timeline for the dissertation. 
• The credits that can be transferred into the doctorate program from a master’s degree and life and work experiences. Look for MS-to-PhD programs that allow overlapping of credits between the degrees. 
• The number of credits taken every term with candidates classified either part-time or full-time. Candidates who want to earn their degree in 2-3 years take on a full-time course load every term, including summers. 
• The delivery mode of the courses, which can be in-person, online or hybrid, is also a significant factor as it influences the pace of study. Online programs are popular because they provide flexible scheduling for working professionals, including accelerating the courses. But accelerated programs demand diligence, drive and determination among candidates so that they can stay on track. 

In the end, your commitment to earning a doctorate from an online accelerated program is the biggest influence in your time-to-completion. 

What traits make for a successful doctorate candidate in an online accelerated program?

Remember that a doctorate is neither about rote memorization nor about rehashing existing knowledge! Instead, it’s about your ability to create new knowledge via your dissertation, research project, or special project in your field of study. Your academic coursework, seminars and assistantships culminate in your dissertation or its equivalent, and your newly acquired knowledge and skillsets are highlighted in it. 

With that being said, you must be strongly passionate about the field of study and its specialized area that you’ve chosen to pursue as a doctorate student. The dissertation process is extremely challenging, and without your strong personal passion and professional commitment, you won’t be able to complete it. 

 Other traits that effective doctorate candidates possess are: 

• Openness to new knowledge and skills combined with a strong sense of curiosity, creativity and flexibility 
• The ability for independent work while also being able to work with a team, such as in research projects 
• Skill in designing your work plan from start to finish and being able to carry it out as planned 
• Personal accountability both to yourself and others 
• Willingness to ask for assistance, including when, how and from whom, as well as the willingness to provide assistance 

What’s the value of a doctorate?

The best one: A doctorate can open doors of opportunities! A terminal degree is a must for leadership positions in many fields of study since it demonstrates expertise in relevant knowledge and skills. This is particularly true for leadership positions in academia, such as university presidents, provosts and deans, and university professors. 

For certain industries, a doctorate is a strong competitive edge. The pharmaceutical and medical industries are prime examples because of their emphasis on research and new products and processes. There are also occupations where a doctorate is a must for licensure and career advancements, such as physical therapy and audiology. 

Indeed, the shorter the time spent on their doctorate studies, the lower the cost of attendance and the faster you can compete in the job marketplace. But, of course, you don’t want to earn a doctorate only to discover later on that it doesn’t meet the standards of potential employers – no accreditation, prestige and usefulness in the contemporary workplace, among other reasons. The best among the fastest PhD and doctorate programs must have valid accreditation and be recognized by academia and industries due to their useful functions.

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Graduate Degrees: Risky and Unequal Paths to the Top

Graduate degrees, risky and unequal paths to the top, full report, executive summary.

• Press Release

Is graduate school worth it? Graduate degrees—including master’s, professional, and doctoral degrees—can help individuals boost their earnings and improve career advancement opportunities. But they can also be high-risk investments given rising costs, student debt, and the current lack of transparency about program outcomes.

Graduate Degrees: Risky and Unequal Paths to the Top proposes new measures to improve accountability and transparency in graduate education through a regulatory framework for Grad PLUS loan eligibility that includes both an in-field earnings premium test and a debt-to-earnings test. The report also examines median earnings, costs, and debt across different types of graduate degrees in different fields of study, along with equity gaps in graduate degree attainment and earnings outcomes by race/ethnicity and gender.

Federal Graduate Student Loans

Graduate costs have increased by 233 percent since 2000. Prospective borrowers have two federal student loan options to finance their graduate education.

– Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans

Stafford loans account for 68 percent of annual federal graduate student loan disbursements and in most cases have an annual limit of $20,500 for graduate students and an aggregate undergraduate and graduate limit of $138,500.

– Grad PLUS Loans

While Grad PLUS loans make up a smaller portion (32 percent) of annual federal graduate student loan disbursements, they are limited only by an institution’s cost of attendance, an amount that universities set with few incentives to rein in costs.

Debt-to-Earnings Test and In-Field Earnings Premium Test

Grad PLUS student loan borrowers are more likely to be enrolled in high-cost programs and more likely to come from marginalized backgrounds. To address these concerns, CEW researchers developed a policy framework, modeled on the Education Department’s Gainful Employment (GE) and Financial Value Transparency (FVT) regulations, that aims specifically to mediate access to the Grad PLUS Loan Program through two tests.

– Debt-to-Earnings Test

For a program to pass the debt-to-earnings test, its graduates’ median federal loan payments would need to be less than 10 percent of their median earnings above the state living wage.

– In-Field Earnings Premium Test

For a program to pass the in-field earnings premium test, its graduates would need median earnings that are at least 5 percent above the median earnings of young workers with a bachelor’s degree in the same broad field of study and state.

• Debt-to-Earnings Test
• In-Field Earnings Premium Test

Forty-one percent of master’s degree programs and 67 percent of professional degree programs with available data would not pass our proposed debt-to-earnings test.

Approximately 14 percent of master’s degree programs with available data would not pass our in-field earnings premium test..

Source: Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce analysis of data from the US Department of Education, College Scorecard, 2023; the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS), 2009–21 (pooled); and Glasmeier, “Living Wage Calculator,” 2023.

Explore Graduate Programs

Under CEW’s proposed regulatory framework, all programs would be required to notify potential students of their performance on the two tests. If a program failed either test for two out of three consecutive academic years, its students would lose eligibility for Grad PLUS loans. To see how graduate programs perform on our proposed regulatory tests, explore our sortable table of graduate programs, which also includes annual earnings and median debt amounts.

– Annual Earnings

Earnings refer to median yearly earnings four years after graduation among those who received federal loans and grants.

– Median Debt

Median debt levels reflect federal student loans used to pay for graduate studies among program completers.

For best results, please view on desktop.

Additional policy recommendations, beyond increased transparency and accountability for the Grad PLUS loan program, include

• providing targeted grant aid to support graduate education in socially valuable professions;
• requiring graduate programs to report detailed information about admissions, retention, and completion rates;
• developing a specialized regulatory approach for professional healthcare programs; and
• increasing the number of programs with available financial outcomes data.

Graduate Degrees: Risky and Unequal Paths to the Top examines median earnings, costs, and debt across different types of graduate degrees in different fields of study, along with equity gaps in graduate degree attainment and earnings outcomes by race/ethnicity and gender.

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Graduate Medical Education (GME): Rheumatology

Fellowship Program Director: Paul J DeMarco, M.D., FACP RACR RhMSUS

Overview The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases strives to mentor individuals wishing to pursue careers in academic medicine. While those participating in our program will fulfill all requirements for certification by the American Board of Internal Medicine (Rheumatology) after two years of matriculation, we strongly encourage additional years of focused training. Applicants seriously wishing to pursue academic careers are expected to engage in three or more years of study. Offers to continue beyond the second year of study are based on merit. There are many opportunities for intensive clinical and basic science research training. The Rheumatology Fellowship Training Program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education.

Program Structure The first year is mainly devoted towards ensuring clinical competence in the practice of rheumatology. Clinical rotations in the consultative practice of rheumatology, pediatric rheumatology, and the community based practice of rheumatology provide opportunities to hone one's clinical skills. Exposure to research activities ongoing within the institute is provided regularly. Limited participation in research activities is encouraged. In the second year, there is more direct involvement in research endeavors. The third year is designed towards more focused research study with the specifics determined by the particular projects selected. Clinical conferences, core rheumatology lectures, and clinical and basic science journal clubs are held weekly throughout the entire year. Fellows are encouraged to request clinical electives that are available at several locations throughout the metropolitan area. Attendance at local and national scientific meetings is highly encouraged to assist with the development of insight into clinical research and scientific investigation.

Both basic and clinical research training is available. Trainees work under the direct supervision of one of the M.D. or Ph.D. NIAMS senior staff. The research experience is characterized by close daily interaction with a preceptor and individual instruction. Ambulatory patient care is expected throughout the training period. During the first year, a fellow will select a research mentor (see Faculty) with approximately 20% of their time made available for the initiation of research projects. In the second and third years, approximately 80% of one's time is devoted to research training. All first-year fellows are required to enroll in the research course, Introduction to the Principles and Practice of Clinical Research, offered by the NIH Clinical Center. Fellows interested in advanced training in clinical research may apply for selection in the Duke-NIH Master's Course in Clinical Research during the third year of fellowship training. Those with interest in laboratory-based investigation are able to pursue endeavors in the laboratory primarily after the first year of training.

Additional Information For more information, please visit NIH NIAMS Rheumatology Training Program .

Application Information To apply, please visit ERAS . Applicants must have completed two or more years of internal medicine residency training. Residents in the American Board of Internal Medicine Clinical Investigator Pathway and those with advanced research preparation are strongly encouraged to apply. Residents in the American Board of Internal Medicine Clinical Investigator Pathway are eligible to apply. Successful completion of two years of study fulfills all requirements for certification by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Rheumatology. We strongly encourage those serious in their academic pursuits to undergo additional years of focused training. Two positions are available each academic year. Applications are accepted throughout the year. Candidates will be selected for interview approximately 20 months prior to the desired appointment. The majority of interviews will be conducted approximately 15 to 20 months prior to matriculation.

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For further information, contact:

Paul J DeMarco, M.D., FACP RACR RhMSUS National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) 10 Center Drive, Building 10, Room 10N311 Bethesda, MD 20892-1616 E-mail: [email protected]

New $1.2M Department of Education Funded Project to Help UCF Graduate More Special Education Teachers

To help address the teacher shortage, the funding will support 40 educators earning master’s degrees at UCF over the next five years, with the first cohort starting this fall.

By Natalie Fedor | September 25, 2024

There are many students who need educational support beyond what the traditional classroom can offer — and there is a critical shortage of educators able to provide that additional support.

However , Elizabeth Dooley , professor of exceptional student education in the College of Community Innovation and Education , and postdoctoral scholar Ashley Grays ’24PhD have a plan to meet the critical needs. Through a $1.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education, Dooley and Grays are helping further the education of 40 exceptional student education master’s students over the next five years with the goal of addressing the shortage of special education teachers right here in Central Florida.

The project, entitled Preparing Next-Gen Special Education Teachers (SET)/Scholars,  aims to enhance exceptional student education through a cohesive academic curriculum aligning with the Department of Education’s goal to increase the number of special education teachers, including those from racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds and of multilingual capabilities. The 40 scholars are distributed across four cohorts, and each will receive a master’s in exceptional student education. Scholars will attend fully funded online courses while maintaining their current teaching jobs. They’ll also receive an annual $3,000 stipend. The inaugural cohort of 10 scholars began its studies this semester.

The National Center for Education Statistics reported in 2022 that approximately 44% of public schools nationwide had full- or part-time teaching vacancies. Of those, schools reported that 45% were special education teaching positions. During the 2022-23 school year, the Florida Department of Education ranked exceptional student education (ESE) as second on its list of critical shortages.

To help address the special education educator shortage locally, Dooley worked with school districts in Orange and Osceola counties through their superintendents to recruit returning scholars for the program. Student scholars will gain advanced skills and knowledge that will enable them to provide high-quality, culturally and linguistically responsive instruction, as well as intervention and student-centered approaches to exceptional student education.

“We brought in teachers who may not have had the full advantage of having a cohesive academic curriculum that’s relevant, relatable and value added for today’s classrooms,” Dooley says. “We wanted to create a program that would expose students to culturally relevant material, help them to understand the legislation that guides them and educate them on the extent of their roles so all of their students can be successful.”

Dooley and Grays say the program will not only be grounded in legislative knowledge and advocacy, but it will also create mentorship opportunities for this cohort and future cohorts to connect and share what they learn with their communities.

“This program is very intentionally built to be something that’s relevant to them, where they are and what their expertise is,” Grays says. “We also know they will be able to positively impact other educators, and we want them to be prepared to be teacher leaders who are grounded in legislation and able to advocate for their students and share that knowledge with their peers.”

Beyond meeting the need for special and general educators, Dooley and Grays add that their backgrounds as teachers motivated them to pursue this project. Both have witnessed firsthand what happens when children are not getting their educational needs met, whether that’s due to lack of resources or lack of knowledge regarding how to address their specific needs.

“There’s a whole host of students who are being left behind,” Dooley says. “There are students with disabilities and students who have been identified as having behavioral issues where those behavior issues overshadow their abilities. We believe that teachers need to have a learning curriculum that helps them determine what the deficiencies are in education, what their responsibilities are, and how they can be accountable to all learners.”

Grays says she was motivated to help after seeing students with behavioral issues falling behind in the classroom because their teachers did not have the proper knowledge of or resources to help them.

“I was an early childhood educator,” Grays says. “I worked with babies all the way up until they transitioned to school, and what I saw in that environment was that there were kids who were given up on before they were even in kindergarten. From a very early time in my career, I saw the disparities, and I saw the way that our biases can play into how we interact with these learners.”

Grays adds that the scholars in this inaugural cohort say they have also identified these issues in their own classrooms.

“They’re actively experiencing what happens when we are not fully prepared,” she says. “Having the opportunity to help them learn what they need in order to best support their students is a privilege.”

One student in the inaugural cohort is Lizbetmar Vazquez, a current fifth-grade math and science teacher at Reedy Creek Elementary in Osceola County. Vazquez says she has always felt she may lack some training because she did not have a bachelor’s degree in education, which led to her desire to go back for her master’s.

“It means a great deal to me to be able to complete my master’s through NextGen,” she says. “They provided me with the chance to develop as a teacher and to speak up for my students. I am excited to become knowledgeable about special education regulations, acquire all the resources I need to speak up for my students, and teach parents how to be effective advocates for their kids.”

Jennifer Johnston, who teaches English language arts to ESE students in fifth through eighth grades, says she was grateful to be chosen for this program to continue her education at no cost to her.

“I have enjoyed learning more about the history of special education, and I look forward to learning more,” Johnston says. “This opportunity means that I will become more knowledgeable in my field and have the credentials to be looked at as an expert. I look forward to growing and opening my mindset to better serve the students I work with.”

Elizabeth Dooley Elizabeth Dooley is a professor of exceptional student education in the UCF School of Teacher Education and serves as the primary investigator for Project Next-Gen SET.  She also serves as the academic program director for the teaching, learning and development track in the education doctoral program. She has over 35 years of experience in higher education as a faculty member and administrator, and also serving in executive leadership positions at West Virginia University and the University of Central Florida. In partnership with colleagues, she has secured over $3 million in funding to support, in service teacher preparation, student success and university-community partnerships.

Ashley Grays ’24PhD Ashley Grays is a postdoctoral scholar in exceptional student education. She received her doctoral degree in exceptional student education from UCF. With over 15 years of experience in early childhood education, Grays explores innovative strategies and evidence-based interventions to reduce educational disparities for marginalized children.

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