10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2025

10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs in the US

1. #1

   University of Missouri

   Columbia , MO

   #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2025 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024

   Tuition + fees

   $12K

   Acceptance

   79%

   Graduation

   75%

   Student body

   34K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1240/26

   Career Outlook for degree at University of Missouri

   Cost of Degree: $13,029

   Expenses: $18,142

   Starting Salary: $56,600

   Cost Recoup Time: 11 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   The Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing, offered thru the University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing, is a flexible, highly individualized accelerated online doctorate degree program designed to groom clinical educators, scholars, and researchers for leadership positions in industrial, academic, or healthcare environments.

   Credit Hours: 56

   Program Duration: 3 Years or less

   Format: Online, On Campus

   What we love about University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing:

   We favor the University of Missouri’s policy of classifying health-related research as a non-discipline specific endeavor. And because its PhD in Nursing doesn’t require a prior nursing degree, it allows students from other disciplines like health education, occupational therapy, and social work to qualify for enrollment in the university’s academic doctorate degree in nursing.

   The University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing is ideal for students who:

   Desire to become part of a community advocating to improve the health of the Missouri community through practice, teaching, and discovery.

   The University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing might not be ideal for students who:

   Are interested in pursuing fields other than nursing and healthcare.

   University of Missouri’s Online Degrees

   BS in Business Administration

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Information Technology

   • Required Credits: 126
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Early Childhood Education In A Mobile Society

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BES in Educational Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Sociology

   • Required Credits: 60
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Communication

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in English

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BGS in General Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Interdisciplinary Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN

   • Required Credits: 30
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BHS in Radiography

   • Required Credits: 30
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BHS in Respiratory Therapy

   • Required Credits: 30
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BHS in Public Health

   • Required Credits: 60
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BHS in Health Science

   • Required Credits: 64
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Fitness Programming And Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   More

   Compare school
2. #2

   Bowling Green State University

   Bowling Green , OH

   #8 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #7 Best Research Universities in Ohio 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025

   Tuition + fees

   $14K

   Acceptance

   79%

   Graduation

   61%

   Student body

   21K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1095/22

   Career Outlook for degree at Bowling Green State University

   Cost of Degree: $10,291

   Expenses: $17,618

   Starting Salary: $45,300

   Cost Recoup Time: 12 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   The accelerated PhD in Technology Management offered at Bowling Green State University is a unique accelerated online doctorate degree program. It is not designed for students who seek mentoring positions in the academe.

   Rather, it is intended to prepare students for leadership positions in technology-based organizations. The program offers specializations in construction management, digital communications, manufacturing systems, quality systems, and human resources development and training.

   Credit Hours: 66

   Program Duration: 2.5 to 3 Years

   Format: Online

   What we love about Bowling Green State University:

   We appreciate BGSU’s commitment to foster research and use public education to produce outstanding and successful technological professionals.

   Bowling Green State University is ideal for students who:

   Have a vision and desire to consistently move forward to promote public welfare.

   Bowling Green State University may not be ideal for students who:

   Are content to be led and dependent on leaders to solve problems for them.

   Compare school
3. #3

   University of North Dakota

   Grand Forks , ND

   #1 Best Schools for Becoming an Air Traffic Controller in 2024 #5 15 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in North Dakota 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in North Dakota 2024

   Tuition + fees

   $11K

   Acceptance

   83%

   Graduation

   63%

   Student body

   17K

   Career Outlook for degree at University of North Dakota

   Cost of Degree: $13,677

   Expenses: $15,292

   Starting Salary: $57,800

   Cost Recoup Time: 10 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   The PhD in Biomedical Engineering of the University of North Dakota’s College of Engineering & Mines is an accelerated online doctorate degree program dedicated to providing you with research skills and specialized technical expertise for the development of advanced medical devices that play huge roles in saving and improving lives on an extensive scale.

   Credit Hours: 90

   Program Duration: 3+ Years

   Format: Online, On Campus

   What we love about the University of North Dakota:

   We love UND’s passion for educational excellence, affordable education, and outstanding career outcomes, especially in the fields of science and engineering.

   The University of North Dakota is ideal for students who:

   Aspire to become a leader of the future in engineering, medicine, science, and aviation.

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

   Are not passionate about research to discover new knowledge and develop new devices for the benefit of mankind.

   Compare school
4. #4

   East Carolina University

   Greenville , NC

   #4 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025

   Tuition + fees

   $7K

   Acceptance

   92%

   Graduation

   65%

   Student body

   31K

   Career Outlook for degree at East Carolina University

   Cost of Degree: $7,658

   Expenses: $16,970

   Starting Salary: $45,800

   Cost Recoup Time: 11 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   East Carolina University offers the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing to equip nurses with advanced research knowledge, skills, and methodologies to help strengthen the science of nursing. It is an accelerated online doctorate degree program that aims to serve as a key for graduates to explore possibilities for new knowledge, techniques and theories applicable in the nursing profession.

   Credit Hours: 54

   Program Duration: 3 - 4 Years

   Format: Online

   What we love about East Carolina University:

   We commend ECU’s passion to promote nursing and medical education. It is the number one producer of allied health professionals in the state of North Carolina.

   East Carolina University is ideal for students who:

   Have a passion to earn knowledge, learn skills, and have a drive to succeed in a diverse, multicultural society.

   East Carolina University might not be the best fit for students who:

   Do not have a positive outlook towards change, innovation, and continuous improvement.

   East Carolina University’s Online Degrees

   BS in Communication

   Degree Concentrations

   • Interpersonal/Organizational

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Hospitality Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Industrial Distribution And Logistics

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSBA in Management

   Degree Concentrations

   • Management And General Business
   • Human Resource Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSBA in Marketing

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSBA in Supply Chain Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSBA in Management Information Systems

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Birth Through Kindergarten (B-K) Teacher Education

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Elementary Education (K-6)

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Family And Consumer Sciences Education

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Middle Grades Education

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Special Education

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in University Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Health Information Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Health Services Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSN in Nursing

   Degree Concentrations

   • Rn To Bsn

   • Required Credits: 125-133
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   More

   Compare school
5. #5

   Hampton University

   Hampton , VA

   #3 Best Online HBCU Doctoral Programs 2025 #4 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #8 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2025

   Tuition + fees

   $29K

   Acceptance

   74%

   Graduation

   46%

   Student body

   5K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1030/22

   Career Outlook for degree at Hampton University

   Cost of Degree: $13,134

   Expenses: $16,886

   Starting Salary: $50,100

   Cost Recoup Time: 12 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Hampton University’s PhD in Educational Management is an accelerated online doctorate degree program designed to mold you into a leader in a dynamic educational environment. It also enhances your educational leadership abilities and strengthens your confidence to create and implement educational strategies to make things happen in the educational landscape.

   Credit Hours: 60

   Program Duration: 2 years

   Format: Online

   What we love about Hampton University:

   We love Hampton University’s openness to diversity and multiculturalism despite being a historically black institution.

   Hampton University is ideal for students who:

   Are comfortable being in a multicultural and holistic educational environment.

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

   Don’t have an open mind about multiculturalism and diversity.

   Hampton University’s Online Degrees

   BS in Business Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Systems Organization And Management

   Degree Concentrations

   • Human Resource Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Criminal Justice

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Paralegal Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in General Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Public Safety Administration

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Religious Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSN in Nursing

   Degree Concentrations

   • 1 Year Accelerated
   • 2 Year Accelerated

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   More

   Compare school
7. #6

   Liberty University

   Lynchburg , VA

   #6 15 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #9 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #10 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #11 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025

   Tuition + fees

   $23K

   Acceptance

   99%

   Graduation

   66%

   Student body

   131K

   Career Outlook for degree at Liberty University

   Cost of Degree: $8,340

   Expenses: $21,458

   Starting Salary: $41,400

   Cost Recoup Time: 13 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Liberty University’s accelerated PhD in Public Policy is one of its most popular online degree programs. It is designed to equip learners with the competency they need to create fair, specific, legal, and goal-oriented public policy.

   Credit Hours: 60

   Program Duration: 3 years or less

   Format: Online

   What we love about Liberty University:

   There are many things that make us admire Liberty University as an institution of learning. The most prominent, however, is its commitment to provide affordable, flexible, and quality online education.

   Liberty University is ideal for students who:

   Believe in a Christian-centered education, with online courses that are designed in conformity with Christian teachings.

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

   Do not conform to teaching from a biblical point of view.

   Liberty University’s Online Degrees

   BS in Commercial Music

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Fashion Merchandising

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BFA in Graphic Design

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Accounting

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSBA in Business Administration

   Degree Concentrations

   • Automotive Dealership Management
   • Communication
   • Data Analytics
   • Digital Marketing And Advertising
   • Economics
   • Entrepreneurship
   • Finance
   • Financial Planning
   • Green And Sustainable Management
   • Healthcare Management
   • Human Resource Management
   • International Business
   • Leadership
   • Marketing Analytics
   • Marketing: Sales Management And Professional Selling
   • Project Management
   • Public Administration
   • Real Estate
   • Strategic Marketing Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BEd in Business Education 6-12

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Christian Leadership And Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Sports Management

   Degree Concentrations

   • Conference And Event Management
   • Sports Administration
   • Sports Communication And Public Relations
   • Sports Outreach
   • Sports Venue Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Computational Mathematics

   Degree Concentrations

   • Actuarial
   • Computer Science
   • Engineering

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Information Systems

   Degree Concentrations

   • Accounting Information Systems
   • Data Networking
   • Database
   • Information Assurance

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Information Technology

   Degree Concentrations

   • Application And Database Development
   • Data Networking And Security
   • Gaming Design
   • Web And Mobile Programming

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Computer Science Cybersecurity

   • Required Credits: 121
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Criminal Justice

   Degree Concentrations

   • Business Administration And Management
   • Corrections And Human Services
   • Crime Scene Investigation
   • Criminal Psychology
   • Homeland Security
   • Juvenile Justice
   • Public Administration
   • Strategic Intelligence

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Fire Administration

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Government

   Degree Concentrations

   • National Security
   • Politics And Policy
   • Public Administration

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Law And Policy

   Degree Concentrations

   • Pre-Law
   • Public Policy

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Paralegal Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Early Childhood Education

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Elementary Education

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BEd in Elementary Education

   Degree Concentrations

   • Middle Grades English
   • Middle Grades Mathematics
   • Middle Grades Science
   • Middle Grades Social Science
   • Special Education

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BEd in English Education 6-12

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BEd in Mathematics Education 6-12

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BEd in Middle Education

   Degree Concentrations

   • English
   • Math
   • Science
   • Social Science

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BEd in Physical Education 6-12

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BEd in Physics Education - Earth Science 6-12

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BEd in Social Studies Education

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Special Education

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BEd in Special Education

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Teaching English As A Second Language

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Applied Ministry

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Biblical And Educational Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Cultural Engagement

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in English And Writing

   Degree Concentrations

   • Creative Writing
   • Journalism

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BEd in English As A Second Language

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in History

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Interdisciplinary Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Military Studies

   Degree Concentrations

   • History
   • International Security
   • Professional
   • Resiliency

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Political Science

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Public Administration

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Religion

   Degree Concentrations

   • Apologetics
   • Biblical And Theological Studies
   • Christian Counseling
   • Christian Ministries
   • Evangelism
   • Global Studies
   • Nextgen

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Social Media Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSW in Social Work

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Strategic Communication

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Worship Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Health Sciences

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Healthcare Administration

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Informatics-Healthcare Informatics

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSN in Nursing (Rn To Bsn)

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSRT in Respiratory Therapist

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSN in Nursing Global Studies (Rn To Bsn)

   • Required Credits: 127
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Psychology

   Degree Concentrations

   • Addictions And Recovery
   • Christian Counseling
   • Criminal Psychology
   • Online Crisis
   • Development Psychology
   • Life Coaching
   • Military Resilience

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Aviation

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Aviation Maintenance Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Aviation Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Civil Engineering

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Industrial Engineering

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   More

   Compare school
8. #7

   Nova Southeastern University

   Fort Lauderdale , FL

   #4 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Florida 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024 #1 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2025

   Tuition + fees

   $36K

   Acceptance

   76%

   Graduation

   62%

   Student body

   24K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1175/23

   Career Outlook for degree at Nova Southeastern University

   Cost of Degree: $24,140

   Expenses: $22,596

   Starting Salary: $55,600

   Cost Recoup Time: 14 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Nova Southeastern University’s PhD in Criminal Justice teaches you the three essential elements of crime-busting: Identifying patterns of criminal behavior, developing solutions to control crime, and addressing internal problems in the criminal justice system.

   It is a flexible program that prepares you for upper-level careers in law enforcement, crime prevention, and public service. This doctoral degree offers three areas of concentration: Behavioral science, juvenile justice, and organizational leadership.

   Credit Hours: 60

   Program Duration: 2.5 Years

   Format: Online, On Campus, Hybrid

   What we love about Nova Southeastern University:

   We love NSU’s commitment to providing students with technology-rich education by way of traditional, online, and blended learning.

   Nova Southeastern University is ideal for students who:

   Have the desire to lead and introduce change in diverse communities without compromising fairness, social responsibility, and cultural values.

   Nova Southeastern University might not be the best fit for students who:

   Lack concern and a desire to make their community a safer, better, and happier place.

   Nova Southeastern University’s Online Degrees

   BS in Human Services Administration

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Criminal Justice

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Elementary Education ESOL/Reading

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Exceptional Student Education ESOL

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BHSc in Health Science

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSR in Respiratory Therapy Post-Professional Program

   • Required Credits: 39
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   More

   Compare school
9. #8

   Southern New Hampshire University

   Manchester , NH

   #11 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Hampshire 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in New Hampshire 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in New Hampshire 2024

   Tuition + fees

   $15K

   Acceptance

   96%

   Graduation

   41%

   Student body

   224K

   Career Outlook for degree at Southern New Hampshire University

   Cost of Degree: $20,469

   Expenses: $24,000

   Starting Salary: $50,200

   Cost Recoup Time: 15 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   The PhD in International Business at Southern New Hampshire University is designed to increase your theoretical knowledge and sharpen your analytical skills in global business operations.

   This accelerated online doctorate degree program exposes you to international trade seminars, provides you with interactive experiential learning, and molds you into an expert in international business theories.

   Credit Hours: 46

   Program Duration: 4 years

   Format: On campus, Hybrid

   What we love about Southern New Hampshire University:

   SNHU offers three elements that make its students grateful to be a part of the university. These are a supportive community, affordability, and an accessible faculty.

   Southern New Hampshire University is ideal for students who:

   Have an open mind about diversity and are willing to take part in diverse campus or classroom activities.

   Southern New Hampshire University may not be ideal for students who:

   Do not feel comfortable in a diverse learning environment.

   Southern New Hampshire University’s Online Degrees

   BA in Digital Photography

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Fashion Merchandising And Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Game Art And Development

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Accounting

   Degree Concentrations

   • Forensic Accounting And Fraud Examination

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Accounting Finance

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Business Administration

   Degree Concentrations

   • Accounting
   • Entrepreneurship
   • Finance
   • Human Resources Management
   • International Business
   • Management Information Systems
   • Marketing
   • Nonprofit Management
   • Organizational Leadership
   • Project Management
   • Public Administration
   • Sports Management
   • Management Information Systems
   • Healthcare Administration
   • Industrial Organizational Psychology

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Data Analytics

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Finance

   Degree Concentrations

   • Financial Planning

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Marketing

   Degree Concentrations

   • Digital Marketing
   • Social Media Marketing

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Operations Management

   Degree Concentrations

   • Logistics And Transportation
   • Project Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Sport Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Technical Management Ii

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Computer Information Systems

   Degree Concentrations

   • Data Validation And Decision Making
   • Networking And Security
   • Project Management
   • Project Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Computer Science

   Degree Concentrations

   • Data Analysis
   • Information Security
   • Project Management
   • Software Engineering
   • Project Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Game Programming And Development

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Information Technologies

   Degree Concentrations

   • Business Management For It
   • Cybersecurity
   • Data Analytics
   • Project Management For It
   • Software Development
   • Business Management For It
   • Project Management For It
   • Cybersecurity

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Information Technologies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Criminal Justice

   Degree Concentrations

   • Corrections
   • Criminology
   • Homeland Security And Counterterrorism
   • Human Services And Advocacy
   • Police Administration And Operations
   • Substance Abuse

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Anthropology

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Communication

   Degree Concentrations

   • New Media
   • Professional Writing
   • Business Communication
   • Public Relations

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Creative Writing And English

   Degree Concentrations

   • Fiction
   • Non-Fiction
   • Poetry
   • Screenwriting

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in English Language And Literature

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in General Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in History

   Degree Concentrations

   • American History
   • European History
   • Middle Eastern Studies
   • Military History

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Human Services

   Degree Concentrations

   • Child And Family Services
   • Gerontology
   • Substance Abuse

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Political Science

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Sociology

   Degree Concentrations

   • Community Health

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Community Health Education

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Health Information Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Health Science

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Healthcare Administration

   Degree Concentrations

   • Health Information Management
   • Patient Safety And Quality

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BSN in Nursing

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Public Health

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Psychology

   Degree Concentrations

   • Addictions
   • Applied Psychology
   • Child And Adolescent Development
   • Mental Health
   • Social Psychology
   • Forensic Psychology

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Environmental Science

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Geosciences

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   More

   Compare school
10. #9

    Indiana University of Pennsylvania

    Indiana , PA

    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025 #5 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs 2025 #13 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1045/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Indiana University of Pennsylvania

    Cost of Degree: $12,672

    Expenses: $15,982

    Starting Salary: $44,200

    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The PhD in Safety Sciences of Indiana University of Pennsylvania is designed to provide you with the capability to develop and hone your research skills while you are working. If you desire to transform your career from business to academia or from an industrial staff to professor, this accelerated online doctorate degree from IUP is your key to attain it.

    Credit Hours: 54

    Program Duration: 3 Years

    Format: Online (Synchronous), Hybrid

    What we love about Indiana University of Pennsylvania:

    We love IUP’s commitment to support its students and ensure that they will flourish academically.

    Indiana University of Pennsylvania is ideal for students who:

    Desire academic growth through a supportive faculty, experiential learning opportunities, and excellent online and classroom curricula.

    Indiana University of Pennsylvania may not be ideal for students who:

    Have the tendency to get spoiled by the university’s assurance of personalized guidance and support. It can result in complacency and loss of student drive to work harder.

    Compare school



12. #10

    Trident University International

    #18 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs) 2025

    Trident University International offers its PhD in Business Administration as an accelerated online doctoral degree program. It intends to provide you with rich academic knowledge and experience through extensive research of your area of interest, and transform you into a world-class business educator.

    Credit Hours: 56

    Program Duration: 2.5 Years

    Format: Online

    What we love about Trident University International:

    We love Trident University’s commitment to providing quality education while keeping its tuition low. It manifests the university’s desire to support its students’ aspirations for educational and professional success.

    Trident University International is ideal for students who:

    Need a flexible, fully online curriculum to help them earn their targeted degree without compromising their existing work and family commitments.

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

    Don’t have the commitment, self-discipline, and reliability to study in a self-paced online institution.

    Compare school

Are you a working professional with a desire to raise your education to a doctorate or PhD level? Do you have the determination and capability to squeeze your studies into your busy schedule? Do you want to finish your doctorate degree in less than five years? Are you interested in the added convenience and flexibility of online doctoral program?

If you answer yes to those questions, you should look for respected schools that offer accelerated PhD or doctoral programs.

A PhD or doctorate will broaden your professional horizons. It reduces professional competition, and places you in the upper 2.1 percent of the population of US professionals.

In short, a PhD or doctorate degree makes you elite as you enjoy the benefit of achieving career goals that are not available to the majority of working professionals in your chosen field.

Find out more with a look at our Guide to Online Degrees. Otherwise, read on.

What are PhD accelerated online programs?

Accelerated PhD or doctorate degree programs are graduate study programs that are shorter yet made more comprehensive and intense than traditional doctorate degree programs.

They require students to accomplish the same amount of work in a shorter time frame, but they intend to provide them with the same amount of knowledge at a lesser cost. They enable students to waive two to three years of schooling to be ready for the job market more quickly.

Accelerated doctoral programs online are designed for students who want to take a shorter route toward a PhD or doctorate degree.

Regular doctorate degree programs require six to eight years to complete. The shortest doctoral program online has a study period of two or three years!

Reasons to Choose Accelerated PhD Online Programs

Choosing accelerated online doctoral degree programs require a careful evaluation of your commitment and determination to accomplish. Because accelerated doctorate degree programs are demanding and rigorous, you need to examine yourself if you have that will and capability to exert more focus and effort to comply with its requirements.

While it is a given that you may have personal reasons for taking the fast track toward a graduate degree, there are common reasons why most people prefer accelerated doctorate degree programs. One of them may be applicable to you.

• An accelerated online program at the PhD level is suited to students who want to join the workforce as quickly and as early as possible.
• Working adults who aspire to professional growth or want to switch careers as soon as possible will find accelerated online PhD programs an attractive option.
• Professionals who have started a PhD program but were unable to finish it may choose to take an online PhD or doctorate degree program to attain an educational goal.
• Taking accelerated PhD programs online provides the same learning outcome as taking classes via traditional PhD programs.
• Taking accelerated PhD programs can provide early return on investment.

Factors For Choosing Accelerated Doctorate Programs

If you already made up your mind about pursuing an accelerated online doctorate degree, the first big step you need to make is to choose a graduate school to enroll in. There are numerous schools that offer PhD and doctorate degree programs online. But as a prospective PhD student, it is important to know that the college is a quality place in which to earn a degree.

The following factors should be included in your decision-making process.

Accreditation

Accreditation is one of the top factors you should look for when looking for a college or university to enroll in. It means that the school’s system, programs, faculty, and facilities undergo a regular periodic review for compliance to the quality standards of the accrediting body approved by the Council for Higher Education and the Department of Education.

Accreditation signifies the quality of education the school is offering. The credits you earn from a regionally or nationally accredited institution are respected all over the country.

Faculty

The one thing you should remember when choosing a college or university offering online doctoral programs is that you’re aiming for the highest educational achievement available in any university. Get the best knowledge through expert, experienced, and respected instructors in their field.

You can check their credentials in the university website. Additionally, you may also seek instructors who foster networking opportunities.

Student Support

A school offering online accelerated programs should look after its students’ welfare, and provide them with sufficient support. It can be in the form of offering research tools, tutoring and mentoring services, library access, and networking opportunities.

Flexibility

Most students especially in online accelerated PhD programs, are already working and raising a family. For this reason, flexibility is a vital factor to will look for — to attain balance in their study, work, and family life.

Academic Doctorate (PhD) or Professional Doctorate?

While this is more about choosing a specialization than picking a university to enroll in, you need it as a part of your decision before proceeding for enrollment.

The type of doctoral degree program you choose is closely related to the career path you plan to take after graduation. The PhD and professional doctorate degree programs allow you to earn the highest level of academic achievement but they differ in many aspects.

If you plan to work as a researcher or teacher, a PhD or academic doctorate would be an ideal degree. Some examples of a PhD include:

• PhD in Arts
• PhD in Literature
• PhD in Chemistry
• PhD in Physics
• PhD in Music
• PhD in Nursing Science
• PhD in Education
• PhD in Computer Science
• PhD in Criminal Justice
• PhD in Business Administration

If you plan to become a specialist in your chosen field and use it as your profession, you may opt for the professional doctorate degree. Here are some examples:

• Doctor of Medicine (MD)
• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
• Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)
• Doctor of Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy)
• Doctor of Engineering (EngD)
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
• Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Doctor of Criminal Justice (DCJ)
• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

When determining the fastest doctorate degree programs that are worth investing in, consider your interests if it fits with the coursework you will study. Your interest in a subject can fuel your drive to learn.

If you want to take your master’s degree to the next level and qualify for higher positions, getting a PhD is the way to go.

If you are interested in doing a dissertation, choose the PhD program, but if you are comfortable with a capstone project or academic residency, you should do well in a professional doctorate degree program.

What to Expect in an Online PhD Degree Program

Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for accelerated online doctorate programs may vary from one school to another, but these are the general requirements:

Curriculum and Courses

The curriculum and courses of different PhD or doctorate degree programs vary from school to school and from one field of study to the next. However, they are similar in certain ways.

A typical online PhD or doctorate degree, regardless of the school, consists of four phases of coursework:

What can you do with an accelerated PhD degree?

The natural next step you will take after completion of your PhD degree is to find an academic or research job. However, you are not limited to only working in academia.

Take your career advancement opportunities to the next level with an accelerated doctorate degree program. For information and tips on getting that degree as quickly as possible, check out our in-depth guide to Fast Online Program Rankings.

With the skill sets and knowledge gained, many PhD’s have the career opportunities in numerous job sectors including:

Or check out our complete College Rankings Guide.