PhD Distance Learning Students May Also Need On-Campus Hours
One of the biggest selling points of distance learning is that it can be done mostly from home. Working professionals who want to earn a Ph.D. find distance learning to be extraordinarily flexible, with most classes available online. This format allows them to continue working for a longer period of time than the traditional Ph.D. classroom experience.
But because the Doctor of Philosophy is the highest and most prestigious degree offered, students are expected to go the extra mile. Earning a Ph.D. usually requires 4-6 years of additional study beyond the master's level. In addition to taking classes, Ph.D. students are expected to do original research and write a publishable thesis or dissertation.
While many distance learning programs are entirely online, Ph.D. distance learning students should expect to complete at least some on-campus time because of residency and research requirements.
Popular online doctorates include:
Psychology (Ph.D.; PsyD). Sub-specialties include clinical psychology, counseling psychology, educational psychology, or organizational psychology.
Education (Ph.D.; EdD). The Ph.D. in Education prepares graduates for academic teaching or administrative careers, and the Ed.D. prepares primary and secondary school administrators or teachers in academic departments of education.
Engineering (PhD; DCS). Areas of study include computer science, electrical engineering, civil engineering, and mechanical engineering. Some programs award a Doctor of Engineering degree (D.Eng).
Public Health (Ph.D.; DPH). These degrees prepare graduates for careers in community health and other social health fields, including epidemiology.
Business (Ph.D; DBA). Graduates with a Ph.D. or DBA in business usually go on to teaching or administrative business careers.
If you decide to pursue a Ph.D. distance learning program, make absolutely sure that the university is accredited and respected in your field. And while most of your courses can be completed online, be prepared carve out some time in your schedule for on-campus research.