Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
Key Takeaways
- Online doctoral degrees are growing in availability and variety.
- Graduate students can even take unusual online programs in subjects like cybersecurity, forensics, and holistic health sciences.
- Accreditation is very important when considering online doctorate programs, especially in unusual fields of study.
Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs in 2025
2025 Ranking Update
Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.
In our 2025 ranking of the most unusual doctoral degrees you can earn online, Boston University rose from the fourth ranking position to the first. The university was able to climb in the rankings because of several improvements made to its Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Music Education program. New interdisciplinary courses explore the intersection of music, technology, and pedagogy, giving DMA students the tools to incorporate digital platforms and media into their teaching methods. The university has also expanded opportunities for research in areas like community music, social justice in music education, and the use of virtual learning environments. Additionally, BU has invested in new performance and recording facilities, enhancing both practical and research-oriented experiences for DMA students. These improvements foster a modern, well-rounded approach to music education.
Featured Programs
The Most Unusual Online Doctorate Degrees
The online PhD and doctoral programs identified were selected for the unique content of their online doctoral program offerings. In most cases, the degree programs themselves may not be entirely unusual.
However, their availability through online programs or hybrid programs is what distinguishes most of the programs included. The graduate schools identified here are highlighted for making online doctorate programs available to students that are otherwise typically offered through strictly residential degree programs.
- #19 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Colleges and Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025
- #12 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees 2025
- #15 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees 2025
- #18 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #24 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #1 Best Online Degree Completion Programs for Returning Students 2025
- #1 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #1 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #1 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025
- #1 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #2 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs 2025
- #2 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice 2025
- #2 Best Online Master’s in Communications 2025
- #2 Best Online Master's in Project Management 2025
- #3 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2025
- #3 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #3 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #3 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Finance 2025
- #3 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #3 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs 2025
- #5 Best Online PhD of Computer Science Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025
- #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
- #7 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
- #7 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #8 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2025
- #1 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
- #15 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students 2025
- #22 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
14%
Graduation
89%
Student body
44K
Median SAT/ACT
1425/32
Career Outlook for degree at Boston University
Cost of Degree: $64,712Expenses: $21,195Starting Salary: $75,900Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Boston University known for?
Boston University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Social Work
- Communications
- Religious Studies
- Education
- Political Science
- Business
- History
- Philosophy
- Physics
Most Influential Alumni
Boston University offers a number of unique doctorate degrees online, including its Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Music Education. Students enrolled in this highly specialized program will learn strategies for leadership in music education policy and practice in a variety of settings both in and outside of schools. The online program will culminate in a one-week residency on campus.
- Boston University is great for students who:
Are seeking a postgraduate education. Roughly half of the school’s student body is made up of graduate students.
- Boston University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a small, intimate campus. Boston University reflects the hustle and bustle of a metropolitan campus.
- #23 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in DC 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in DC 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Colleges in DC 2024
- #3 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2025
- #15 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees 2025
- #19 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in DC
- #1 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in DC 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #3 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs 2025
- #3 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2025
- #6 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #10 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #5 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
49%
Graduation
85%
Student body
30K
Median SAT/ACT
1410/32
Career Outlook for degree at George Washington University
Cost of Degree: $35,154Expenses: $19,325Starting Salary: $82,400Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is George Washington University known for?
George Washington University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Law
- Communications
- Business
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Medical
- Education
- Earth Sciences
Most Influential Alumni
George Washington University is noted for several excellent online doctoral degree programs, many with direct relevance to government agency leadership in the nation’s capital. For instance, students can complete an online Doctor of Engineering (DEng) in Cybersecurity Analytics. Students will learn to plan and implement security measures to protect an organization’s network and systems, implement strategies to track threats and monitor networks for security breaches, and more. Online course completion takes place during weekend sessions.
- George Washington University is great for students who:
Are interested in fields like political science, law, and civics. Its location in the U.S. capital makes GW a prime destination for these areas of study.
- George Washington University might not be the best fit for students who:
Don’t wish to attend college in an urban environment. GW is immersed directly in the city of Washington D.C.
- #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #24 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
- #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #3 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
- #3 Best Research Universities in Florida 2025
- #4 Best Colleges and Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025
- #9 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025
- #11 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Counseling 2025
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs 2025
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Information Technology 2025
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Florida 2025
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Florida 2025
- #3 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #3 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Florida
- #4 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #4 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #4 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #4 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
- #5 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #6 Best Online Master’s in Communications 2025
- #8 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #9 Best Online Master’s in Engineering 2025
- #10 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #12 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
- #12 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #17 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
- #20 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #6 Most Affordable Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
25%
Graduation
85%
Student body
51K
Median SAT/ACT
1290/28
Career Outlook for degree at Florida State University
Cost of Degree: $11,553Expenses: $20,296Starting Salary: $53,900Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Florida State University known for?
Florida State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Social Work
- Earth Sciences
- Chemistry
- Education
- Law
- Physics
- Communications
- Political Science
- History
Most Influential Alumni
Florida State University is noted for several excellent distinctive online PhDs and doctoral degree programs, including its PhD in Classical Civilization. This unique program is designed for high school teachers and community college teachers who wish to improve their skills, prepare for serious research, and improve their credentials with a more general emphasis in classical civilization. PhD candidates in the online program are expected to take a variety of summer courses and independent studies in order to earn the full share of required credits.
- Florida State University is great for students who:
Are looking to participate in campus activities, Greek life, and sporting event attendance.
- Florida State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a more intimate college experience.
- #2 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #3 Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #15 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's in Biology
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2025
- #4 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs
- #4 Best Online Master's in Sports Management 2025
- #5 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #5 Best Online Master’s in Counseling 2025
- #5 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #8 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #9 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting 2025
- #10 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #10 Best Online Master’s in Education
- #13 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #16 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
- #17 Best Online Master’s in Engineering 2025
- #21 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
47%
Graduation
85%
Student body
40K
Median SAT/ACT
1370/30
Career Outlook for degree at North Carolina State University
Cost of Degree: $11,819Expenses: $17,709Starting Salary: $59,500Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is North Carolina State University known for?
North Carolina State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Earth Sciences
- Engineering
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Education
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
NC State is noted for a number of unusual doctorate degree programs, which are available through online programs, including its Doctor of Design (DDes), where students pursue design research in support of those professions creating the artifacts, communications, environments, organizing structures, and systems of the future. The DDes can be completed through distance education but includes a one-week on-campus seminar each semester.
- North Carolina State is great for students who:
Are looking to get involved. Students note that the campus has a wide selection of activities, athletics, and arts to choose from.
- North Carolina State might not be the best fit for students who:
Require a great deal of administrative support. Students report that offices like the Financial Aid department can sometimes be slow to respond to student needs.
- #2 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #17 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in California 2025 #6 Best Private Colleges in California 2025
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in California 2025
- #3 Best Online Colleges in California 2024
- #4 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
- #5 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2025
- #7 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources 2025
- #15 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #23 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #25 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
49%
Graduation
84%
Student body
13K
Median SAT/ACT
1382/30
Career Outlook for degree at Pepperdine University
Cost of Degree: $42,020Expenses: $26,770Starting Salary: $77,600Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Pepperdine University known for?
Pepperdine University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Business
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Economics
- Law
- Religious Studies
- Education
- Literature
- History
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
Pepperdine University is noted for a number of unusual online doctoral degree programs, including its EdD in Learning Technologies, which is distinguished by its focus on providing candidates with the expertise to effectively leverage new and emerging learning technologies to facilitate learning and development in the workplace and school. Students in this unique educational leadership program can earn their degree either online or through a hybrid online/on-campus program.
- Pepperdine University is great for students who:
Are looking for a small school where professors are highly accessible. Students report that they enjoy the direct one-on-one attention and support they have received from their instructors.
- Pepperdine University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are looking for a party atmosphere. Students note that Pepperdine is very welcoming, but that it is not always easy to find recreational activities on nights and weekends.
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2025 #2 Best Colleges in South Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Research Universities in South Carolina 2025
- #2 Cheap Colleges in South Carolina in 2025
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in South Carolina
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in South Carolina 2024
- #2 Best Online Colleges in South Carolina 2024
- #4 Best Online Master's in Biology
- #5 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management 2025
- #6 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #9 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources 2025
- #9 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies 2025
- #12 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #14 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #14 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs 2025
- #15 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #16 Best Online Master's in Special Education 2025
- #16 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #21 Best Online Master’s in Engineering 2025
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
43%
Graduation
85%
Student body
30K
Median SAT/ACT
1315/30
Career Outlook for degree at Clemson University
Cost of Degree: $12,646Expenses: $19,784Starting Salary: $58,900Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Clemson University known for?
Clemson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Among its online doctorate degrees, Clemson offers a PhD in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (PRTM). Students enrolled in this program will take core courses such as Behavioral Aspects of PRTM and Grant Writing. The PhD program may be completed entirely through synchronous online courses along with a one-week campus residency each calendar year.
- Clemson University is great for students who:
Enjoy college athletics. Clemson’s Tigers enjoy an enormous cultural presence both on campus and in the surrounding region.
- Clemson University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are looking for a college in a lively area. Clemson is located in the foothills of the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, but this also means that the university is a two hour drive from the nearest city.
- #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
- #1 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2025
- #4 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2025
- #8 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2025
- #8 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2025
- #9 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #22 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Online Associate in Economics
- #1 Best Online Associate's in Physics 2025
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Degree Programs 2025
- #1 Best Online Associate Degree Programs That Can Be Completed in 1 Year
- #1 Most Affordable Online Master's Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2025
- #1 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #1 Best Online Associate in Philosophy
- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #1 Best Online Associate's in History Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #1 Best Online Associate in Education
- #1 Best Online Associate in Mathematics 2025
- #1 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Nursing (BSN) Programs 2025
- #2 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Psychology Degree Programs 2025
- #2 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
- #2 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs 2025
- #2 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of English
- #2 Best Online Master's in Theology 2025
- #2 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2025
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2025
- #2 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies
- #2 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2025
- #2 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies 2025
- #2 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2025
- #2 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology 2025
- #3 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates)
- #3 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #3 Best Online Degrees for a Career in Teaching Ranked 2024
- #3 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs 2025
- #3 Best Online Associate in Paralegal Studies
- #3 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Healthcare Administration Masters 2025
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2025
- #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia 2025
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois
- #4 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #4 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Homeland Security Degree Programs for 2025
- #4 Best Online Associate in Psychology
- #4 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2025
- #4 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
- #4 Best Online Associate in Accounting 2025
- #4 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2025
- #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
- #5 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
- #5 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
- #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2025
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2025
- #6 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Accounting Programs 2025
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
- #6 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates) 2025
- #6 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs
- #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs 2025
- #7 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
- #7 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
- #7 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #7 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
- #7 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates 2025
- #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2025
- #8 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #8 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity 2025
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #8 Best Online Master's in Project Management 2025
- #9 Best Online Master's in Biology
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2025
- #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #9 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #10 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs 2025
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #11 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs 2025
- #11 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2025
- #11 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #11 Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #11 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
- #12 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees 2025
- #12 Best Online Master’s in Finance 2025
- #12 Best Online Master's in Sports Management 2025
- #13 Best Online Master’s in Counseling 2025
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting 2025
- #14 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2025
- #16 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs) 2025
- #16 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice
- #18 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #21 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
- #25 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
- #25 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
- #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Associate's of Counseling Degree Programs
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
- #5 20 Fastest Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2024
- #5 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
- #5 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling 2025
- #5 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs 2025
- #6 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #8 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
- #14 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2025
Tuition + fees
$23K
Acceptance
99%
Graduation
66%
Student body
131K
Career Outlook for degree at Liberty University
Cost of Degree: $8,340Expenses: $21,458Starting Salary: $41,400Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Liberty University known for?
Liberty University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Education
- Criminal Justice
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Law
- Social Work
- History
- Business
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
Liberty University is noted for its highly varied array of online graduate degree offerings, including its unique PhD in Business Administration-Entrepreneurship, where students can receive a doctoral-level business administration education with a heavy emphasis on biblical principles of leadership and ethics. This program can be completed entirely online.
- Liberty University is great for students who:
Wish to attend the world’s largest seminary—Liberty University’s Rawlings School of Divinity.
- Liberty University might not be the best fit for:
Students who do not identify with Evangelical Christianity.
- #2 Best Christian Colleges in Washington 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in Washington 2024 #4 Best Research Universities in Washington 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Washington 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$51K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
88%
Student body
8K
Median SAT/ACT
1310/28
Career Outlook for degree at Gonzaga University
Cost of Degree: $20,244Expenses: $20,749Starting Salary: $63,800Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Gonzaga University known for?
Gonzaga University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Gonzaga offers an array of unique doctorate degrees fully online, including its Doctoral Program in Leadership Studies (DPLS). Students in this program will study leadership in three dimensions—the leader as a person, organizational complexities, and global systems. This online degree program is delivered through a Jesuit philosophical framework.
- Gonzaga University is great for students who:
Are seeking a beautiful and immersive campus. Gonzaga’s location near Spokane River makes for picturesque views.
- Gonzaga University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer sunshine and warmth. Students note that Gonzaga’s Pacific Northwest locale leads to a lot of gloomy weather.
- Gonzaga University is great for students who:
- #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #4 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2025 #5 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates) #5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025
Other Rankings
- #5 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
- #5 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #6 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #7 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
- #7 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2025
- #7 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
- #8 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates) 2025
- #9 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #10 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
- #10 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
- #10 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
- #11 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates)
- #11 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates 2025
- #12 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #6 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
- #8 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
- #11 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
- #18 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
Tuition + fees
$12K
Student body
74K
Career Outlook for degree at Walden University
Cost of Degree: $10,657Starting Salary: $62,500What is Walden University known for?
Walden University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Business
- Education
- Medical
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
Walden University offers several unusual online doctorate programs, including its PhD in Forensic Psychology, where students will take a deeper dive into the biological, psychological, and socioeconomic factors that can drive criminal behavior. This fully online program prepares students to be advisors, thought leaders, and scholarly contributors in the fields of criminal justice.
- Walden University is great for students who:
Are studying nursing, public health, and healthcare administration. Walden is one of the nation’s top degree providers in these fields.
- Walden University might not be the best fit for students who:
Plan to earn PhDs in psychology. Walden’s PhDs do not have accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA).
- #8 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates) #8 The Most Affordable Online Clinical Nutrition Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025 #9 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025 #11 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
Student body
1K
What is Saybrook University known for?
Saybrook University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Among Saybrook University’s unique online doctorate programs is its PhD in Mind-Body Medicine, where candidates will learn how to apply holistic evidence-based therapies to support physical, emotional, social, and mental health through stress management and thought regulation. PhD candidates can choose through fully online and hybrid degree programs.
- Saybrook University is great for students who:
Are seeking remote learning options. Saybrook is described as a “low residency” institution.
- Saybrook University might not be the best fit for students who:
Have financial constraints. Some students describe Saybrook as a relatively costly online/hybrid experience.
- Saybrook University is great for students who:
As a growing number of colleges and universities offer online doctorate programs, the types of programs that students can choose from are becoming more varied. It’s not unusual to find a graduate program that offers online doctoral programs in areas like counselor education, nursing practice, or educational leadership. But it is far less common to find fully online doctorate degree programs in areas like learning technology, classical civilizations, and music education.
That’s why we’ve highlighted the cool and interesting doctoral degree programs included here. Each offers an online PhD or doctoral degree program that is not commonly offered in the fully online or hybrid format. This makes each of the online doctoral degree programs included here a unique opportunity to advance your career and education while balancing existing work and personal responsibilities.
For a look at how these online doctoral programs stack up against traditional on campus programs, check out our look at the 50 Best Graduate Schools in the U.S.
Otherwise, read on and learn more about how you can earn an online PhD or complete a top-ranked online doctorate program in an unusual subject.
About Accredited Doctorate Degree Online Programs
Whatever subject you choose to pursue, quality and credibility are important when it comes to finding an online PhD. The best online doctorate programs will have proper accreditation:
- Institutional Accreditation: Accreditation is vital for online doctoral programs. It signifies that the online Ph.D programs offered by the graduate school are in compliance with the standards of a Department of Education-approved accrediting body.
- Programmatic Accreditation: In addition to institutional accreditation, be sure that you are only considering doctorate degree programs with programmatic accreditation. For instance, if you seek a doctor of nursing practice, be sure that your online doctoral degree program has accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). If you seek a PhD in business administration, be sure you only consider online degrees with programmatic accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
- Carnegie Classification: The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, or as it is more commonly known, the Carnegie Classification, is a framework for categorizing all accredited, degree-granting institutions in the United States. Originally formulated in 1970 by The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, and administered through the University of Indiana’s Center for Postsecondary Research since 2014, the Carnegie Classification is “the leading framework for recognizing and describing institutional diversity in U.S. higher education.”
A school must also be accredited in order to offer federal financial aid to its online doctorate candidates. When looking for an online doctoral program, seek out options with accreditation from a colleges and schools commission in your region. This stamp of approval is critical for ensuring the quality and credibility of your online program.
Programmatic accreditation ensures you only select from online PhD programs respected in your field.
Under this classification, top research universities for doctoral degrees and PhD candidates are identified as either R2: Doctoral Universities for “high research activity” or R1: Doctoral Universities for “very high research activity.” Look for these classifications when considering options for your online Phd programs.
Key Point: The best online doctoral programs will have both institutional and programmatic accreditation.
Admission Requirements
Schools that offer online doctorate programs have different admission requirements. However, in most online doctoral programs will carry the same basic threshold for admission:
- A completed online application
- Official undergraduate college transcripts
- A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
- GRE scores, MAT scores, or GMAT scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal interviews
- Personal statement or essay
- Plan of study
Key Point: In many cases, you’ll be eligible to enter a doctoral degree online after earning a bachelor’s degree. However, some specialized online PhD programs may require you to have earned a master’s degree as well.
Curriculum and Courses
Research is typically a central component of your degree program. This is true for fully online doctorate degrees as well as hybrid degrees combining online education with traditional on-campus courses. Regardless of whether you complete a traditional, hybrid or online doctoral program, the typical time to completion is five to seven years.
The typical components of your online doctorate or PhD program may include:
Foundational Courses
While some foundational online doctorate courses may be focused on your specific discipline or area of study, most courses will focus on research methods and experimental design. You may be able to complete many of these requirements through online classes.
Examinations for PhD Candidacy
Many online doctoral students are required to complete certain examinations to enter into online PhD candidacy. This will typically occur after you’ve completed one to two years of foundational courses.
Dissertation
In most cases, the central component of your online PhD program will be the completion of your dissertation. After gaining status as an online PhD candidate, you will typically work closely with a professorial advisor or mentor to develop an original research question.
This research question will form the basis of your dissertation—an ongoing project designed to address this research question through applied research. While you will work closely with your advisor or mentor, much of your dissertation will be rooted in independent research. This is especially true for students pursuing an online PhD.
Oral Defense
Upon completion of the written portion of your dissertation—which will typically present the findings from your original research project—you will be expected to defend your findings. This “oral defense” will typically be conducted by a commission of professors and experts in your field. PhD candidates in some online degree programs may be able to conduct this defense via teleconferencing.
Teaching Requirements
Some online Ph.D programs will also include a teaching component, which will require you to work as an adjunct professor or teacher’s assistant in an undergraduate or graduate school. It may be possible for students in the online doctoral degree program to also serve teaching requirements by instructing online students.
Key Point: The online PhD is a research-focused degree. Your dissertation will be a central part of your online doctoral degree program.
Careers for Students Who Complete Online Doctoral Programs
Accredited online doctoral programs are generally terminal degree programs. This means that students who complete credible online doctoral programs in their field are generally eligible for top positions and opportunities in their field. These opportunities, and the pay scale, may differ from one field to the next.
That said, the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that, in 2023, working professionals with a PhD earned more per hour of work than Americans in every educational demographic.
According to the BLS, the median weekly earning for graduate students with a doctoral degree was $1909. By contrast, those with a master’s degree earned a weekly median of $1574, while bachelor’s degree holders earned a median of $1334.
These higher earnings are reflective of the rarified professional opportunities that await those with a PhD in their field. Working professionals who earn an accredited online doctorate may be eligible to work in the following areas.
- Theoretical Research
- Scientific Research
- Publishing
- Sociology
- Post-Secondary Education
- Public Policy Consultation
- Clinical Practice
- Organizational Leadership
Key Points: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, students with a doctorate will earn more than graduates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
What’s the difference between online doctoral programs and online Ph.D programs?
Technically, a PhD is a type of doctorate degree. This means that all online PhD candidates are doctoral students. By contrast, not all doctoral students are PhD candidates.
The primary distinction is that doctoral students are primarily focused on putting existing theories into practice. Depending on your chosen field, your online doctoral degree may require participation in an educational leadership program, engagement in clinical practice, work as a resident in a nursing program, and much more.
By contrast, online PhD students are focused on creating new knowledge in their area of study. This usually means that online PhD candidates are focused on introducing new theories, creating research projects around these theories, and presenting new findings that demonstrate a mastery of existing knowledge and the insight to introduce new ideas into the field.
Today, more working professionals than ever before are pursuing both online doctoral degrees and online PhD programs.
See our Guide to Life in Graduate School for valuable tips on applying to and succeeding in your master’s or doctoral degree program.
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