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Welcome to OnlinePhDProgram.org, a comprehensive guide to accredited online PhD programs. Our blog is maintained by Donna Kjellander, a recent PhD graduate with a background in business and management. To help you find answers to commonly asked questions about online PhD programs, we’ve created a helpful introduction below:
- What should I look for in an online PhD program?
- What can I do with a PhD?
- What does it take to get accepted into a PhD program?
- What does it take to complete a PhD program?
- What other resources are available for online PhD students?
What should I look for in an online PhD program?
At the doctoral level, many fields branch off into research, academic, or leadership specialties, making it critical to find a program that is right for you. Consider important facts about the program such as: accreditation, status as fully online or a hybrid program, and if it prepares graduates to meet requirements (be they certification, exams, or otherwise) for their desired profession.
We have provided a list of common online PhD programs from accredited schools below:
| School | Programs |
|---|---|
 Northcentral University Accreditation:
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 Walden University Accreditation:
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 Grand Canyon University Accreditation:
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 University of the Rockies Accreditation:
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Click here to see more online PhD programs.
What can I do with a PhD?
A PhD often prepares graduates for a position at a university or a research institute. Below lists the most common careers that require a PhD, as well as programs that are relevant to those careers.
| FIELD | EMPLOYMENT OPTIONS | RELEVANT PROGRAMS |
|---|---|---|
| Academia | Professor; Researcher; Lecturer; Department Chair; Research Supervisor; etc | Multiple degree options |
| STEM | Engineer; Mathematician; Scientist; Technologist | PhD in Engineering; PhD in Computer Science |
| Business/Management | Executive; Director or manager of various divisions such as marketing or advertising | PhD in Business and Management |
| Education Administration | University Dean; District Administrator; Chairs of academic departments; Directors of administrative departments | PhD in Educational Leadership/Administration |
| Healthcare | Psychologist; Hospital Executive; Health Systems Administrator; Director of a pharmaceutical company | PhD in Health Administration; PhD in Physical Therapy; PhD in Psychology |
| Humanities | Sociologist; Archaeologist; Anthropologist; Geologist; etc | Multiple degree options |
What does it take to get accepted into a PhD program?
Each school has its own set of admissions policies and selection criteria. For information on admission procedures, visit the individual school’s website or contact the program director for your intended major.
Schools typically look for the following skills and qualities in a PhD candidate:
- Strong research potential and a track record of original research.
- Excellent academic record with high test scores (GRE or GMAT).
- Substantial experience in your chosen field.
- Career objectives consistent with the PhD degree program.
What does it take to complete a PhD program?
Successfully completing a PhD program can seem like a daunting task, but if you understand the process, you can better plan ahead. Below are the most common steps for completing a PhD program:
| STEP | OVERVIEW | ADDITIONAL INFORMATION |
|---|---|---|
| Step #1: | Research different PhD programs | Find the right program that suits your academic and professional needs |
| Step #2: | Get Accepted to a PhD program | Verify funding options and financial support for PhD students |
| Step #3: | Get a teaching or research assistantship | Assistantships often help with tuition and publishing opportunities |
| Step #4: | Complete all requisite coursework | Make sure all coursework and examinations are completed and submitted for review |
| Step #5: | Prepare a doctoral dissertation/thesis | Secure a committee to guide and evaluate the process |
| Step #6: | Defend your thesis and graduate | An approved-thesis form is sent to the Registrar to confirm graduation eligibility status |
What other resources are available for online PhD students?
You can learn more about online PhD programs by reading one of our many helpful guides listed below.
- Frequently Asked Questions for Online PhD Students
- Top Thesis & Dissertation References on the Web
- Indispensable Resources for Online Academic Research
We’re also active on social media and post regularly about what’s happening in the PhD community:
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