10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2025

Badge for FASTEST ONLINE PHD PROGRAMS
By Dave Tomar
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • A doctorate degree, the highest educational level in many fields, is designed for students who desire to achieve the most advanced knowledge in specific subjects.
  • Most doctorate degree programs take up to seven years to complete, but accelerated versions of doctoral online programs can shorten the study period to two to three years.
  • Accelerated online doctoral programs are shorter but demand more focus and effort because it requires the same output as a regular PhD program.

Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs

Sort by:
  1. University of Missouri
  2. Bowling Green State University
  3. University of North Dakota
  4. East Carolina University
  5. Hampton University
  6. Liberty University
  7. Nova Southeastern University
  8. Southern New Hampshire University
  9. Indiana University of Pennsylvania
  10. Trident University International
  1. University of Missouri
  2. Bowling Green State University
  3. University of North Dakota
  4. East Carolina University
  5. Hampton University
  6. Liberty University
  7. Nova Southeastern University
  8. Southern New Hampshire University
  9. Indiana University of Pennsylvania
  10. Trident University International
  1. Liberty University 99%
  2. Southern New Hampshire University 96%
  3. East Carolina University 92%
  4. Indiana University of Pennsylvania 92%
  5. University of North Dakota 83%
  6. Bowling Green State University 79%
  7. University of Missouri 79%
  8. Nova Southeastern University 76%
  9. Hampton University 74%
  1. Southern New Hampshire University 22 to 1
  2. Indiana University of Pennsylvania 21 to 1
  3. East Carolina University 18 to 1
  4. University of Missouri 18 to 1
  5. Liberty University 18 to 1
  6. Nova Southeastern University 17 to 1
  7. University of North Dakota 17 to 1
  8. Bowling Green State University 17 to 1
  9. Hampton University 13 to 1
  1. Nova Southeastern University $36,300
  2. Hampton University $29,162
  3. Liberty University $22,511
  4. Southern New Hampshire University $15,380
  5. Bowling Green State University $11,272
  6. University of Missouri $10,452
  7. University of North Dakota $9,237
  8. Indiana University of Pennsylvania $7,716
  9. East Carolina University $4,452
  1. Nova Southeastern University $22,062
  2. Southern New Hampshire University $18,900
  3. Hampton University $13,099
  4. University of North Dakota $11,963
  5. University of Missouri $10,447
  6. Indiana University of Pennsylvania $9,288
  7. Bowling Green State University $8,418
  8. Liberty University $7,893
  9. East Carolina University $4,749
  1. Trident University International
  2. Indiana University of Pennsylvania
  3. Southern New Hampshire University
  4. Nova Southeastern University
  5. Liberty University
  6. Hampton University
  7. East Carolina University
  8. University of North Dakota
  9. Bowling Green State University
  10. University of Missouri
  1. Trident University International
  2. Indiana University of Pennsylvania
  3. Southern New Hampshire University
  4. Nova Southeastern University
  5. Liberty University
  6. Hampton University
  7. East Carolina University
  8. University of North Dakota
  9. Bowling Green State University
  10. University of Missouri
  1. Hampton University 74%
  2. Nova Southeastern University 76%
  3. University of Missouri 79%
  4. Bowling Green State University 79%
  5. University of North Dakota 83%
  6. Indiana University of Pennsylvania 92%
  7. East Carolina University 92%
  8. Southern New Hampshire University 96%
  9. Liberty University 99%
  1. Hampton University 13 to 1
  2. Nova Southeastern University 17 to 1
  3. University of North Dakota 17 to 1
  4. Bowling Green State University 17 to 1
  5. East Carolina University 18 to 1
  6. University of Missouri 18 to 1
  7. Liberty University 18 to 1
  8. Indiana University of Pennsylvania 21 to 1
  9. Southern New Hampshire University 22 to 1
  1. East Carolina University $4,452
  2. Indiana University of Pennsylvania $7,716
  3. University of North Dakota $9,237
  4. University of Missouri $10,452
  5. Bowling Green State University $11,272
  6. Southern New Hampshire University $15,380
  7. Liberty University $22,511
  8. Hampton University $29,162
  9. Nova Southeastern University $36,300
  1. East Carolina University $4,749
  2. Liberty University $7,893
  3. Bowling Green State University $8,418
  4. Indiana University of Pennsylvania $9,288
  5. University of Missouri $10,447
  6. University of North Dakota $11,963
  7. Hampton University $13,099
  8. Southern New Hampshire University $18,900
  9. Nova Southeastern University $22,062

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
    Other Rankings

    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
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Bowling Green State University

    Bowling Green , OH
    #8 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2025 #7 Best Research Universities in Ohio 2024
    Other Rankings

    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 Public Colleges in North Dakota 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools North Dakota 2025
    Other Rankings

    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
    Other Rankings

    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
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  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
    Other Rankings

    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
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  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
    Other Rankings

    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
    Compare school
  8. #7

    Nova Southeastern University

    Fort Lauderdale , FL
    #3 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Florida 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024 #1 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2025
    Other Rankings

    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
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  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
    Other Rankings

    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
    Compare school
  10. #9

    Indiana University of Pennsylvania

    Indiana , PA
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025 #6 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs #13 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
    Other Rankings

    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
    11. Four serious business professionals

  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.

  Back to Top

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.
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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.

Male nurse researching on a computer

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:

  • A completed application form
  • Payment of application fee
  • Official transcript from previous colleges and universities attended
  • Resume
  • GMAT or GRE scores
  • Recommendation letters
  • English proficiency test

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:

  • Research and preparatory classes
  • Major courses
  • Electives, and
  • Dissertation

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:

  • Research and development
  • Market research and analysis
  • Medical Communication
  • Competitive Intelligence
  • Business Development
  • Product Management
  • Management Consultancy
  • Healthcare Information Technology
  • Quantitative Analysis

Key Point: It is possible to find a career outside of academia once you have earned a PhD.

Or check out our complete College Rankings Guide.

 

Get tips for choosing and applying to advanced degree programs both in person and online with a look at our Grad Life Guide.

See our Resources Guide for much more on studying, starting your job search, and more.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here