Get more information regarding Cheapest Universities In USA For Phd, cheapest universities in usa for international students, cheapest engineering universities in usa for international students, universities with low tuition fees for international students, cheapest university in usa for international students 2023, cheapest community colleges in usa for international students, cheap universities in usa for international students 2022 & cheapest phd in usa for international students.

cheap PhD universities in uSA

The decision to pursue a doctorate degree is courageous and, in the long run, can really pay off. However, it can also be costly to attain. According to U.S. News and World Report, the average cost of attending school is not going down. In one annual survey, the average price for in-state tuition and fees at public schools rose by around 4% in the 2019-2020 school year. Out-of-state tuition also increased by 4%. Private colleges showed an increase of tuition at a slightly smaller rate of 3%. After adding in the cost of books, living expenses, transportation cost, dissertation and research time, itโ€™s clear that a doctoral student must be adept at budgeting. These costs should be taken seriously as they imply debt after graduation.

According to a recent 2019 Sallie Mae survey entitled How America Pays for College, nearly 8 in 10 families rate finances as a higher consideration when choosing a school than academic needs. The following list of schools should assist these families and individuals in their research and afford them both academic and financial success through their pursuit of a doctorate.

Top 10 Cheapest Online Doctorate Degree Fields

  • BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
  • MARKETING
  • HUMAN RESOURCES
  • EDUCATION
  • NURSING
  • CRIMINAL JUSTICE
  • SOCIAL WORK
  • HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT
  • PSYCHOLOGY
  • ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP

30 Cheap Online Doctorate (Ph.D.) Degrees

We did the work for you! Listed in random order, our profiled list of 30 Cheap Online Doctorate (Ph.D.) Degrees features schoolโ€™s offerings based on the following program components:

  • Provides the best value for tuition and fees,
  • 100% Online programs that guarantee flexibility and convenience,
  • Offers Financial Aid opportunities,
  • Displays positive reviews by previous students, as well as, reputable online websites and other academic resources,
  • Sharpens decision-making, critical-thinking and problem-solving skills needed to excel at the Doctorate level,
  • Exhibits acceptable graduation rates,
  • Offers Accelerated programs for cost efficiency, when applicable.

While tuition cost is a significant factor for choosing an online doctorate degree, it is not the sole criterion for making the right decision. To this point, our list includes the most affordable online doctorate degrees from duly accredited online schools that adhere to standards of excellence and produce quality graduates.

Check out our list of cheap doctorate degree programs below and find the school that doesnโ€™t only keep you academically adept but also financially fit at that. For additional information about our school selection process, please see our Methodology page.

Additional Articles: 30 Fastest Online Doctorate Degree Programs and 30 Easiest Online Doctorate Programs

Texas A&M University-Commerce

CHEAP ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION (ED.D.) IN EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION DEGREE

cheapest online phd programs

Formerly known as the East Texas Normal College, Texas A&M University-Commerce (TAMUC) moved from Copper to its present location in Commerce in the early 1900s. It was changed into a public college and was renamed a number of times before it became a part of the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS).

Students can expect scholarships and financial aid offered yearly to provide low-cost programs. Among the graduate programs in Texas A&M University-Commerce, only the Doctor of Education degree in Educational Administration is arranged to be taken fully online with tuition fee that costs only $350 per credit hour. The Educational Leadership department designed this program for students who want to practice K-12 public school administration.

LEARN MORE ABOUT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-COMMERCEโ€™S AFFORDABLE ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM

University of Wyoming

AFFORDABLE ONLINE EDD IN HIGHER EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION DEGREE

cheapest online phd programs

The University of Wyoming stands as the only four-year university in the state. It is located atop the Laramie Plains and has been operating since 1886 that had a curriculum that first honed in on arts and humanities. It has then expanded its programs to agriculture, engineering and military tactics since it became a land-grant institution. Now the UW (pronounced as โ€œU-Dubโ€), has colleges and programs from the fields of business, education, energy resources, law, health sciences, and more.

UW Distance Education was founded to deliver programs for students across the nation through online and combination formats. They offer programs for bachelorโ€™s, masterโ€™s, doctoral and certification, and endorsement levels. You can get a doctoral degree in Higher Education Administration, Educational Leadership, Nursing Practice, and Instructional Technology all at a rate of only $362.67-562 per credit depending on your state residency. The EDD in Higher Education Administration requires students to complete 75-77 credit units either fully online or in a hybrid format.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=IlLkjh7esOo%3Ffeature%3Doembed
LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF WYOMINGโ€™S AFFORDABLE ONLINE EDD IN HIGHER EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM

Aspen University

COST-EFFECTIVE ONLINE DOCTOR OF COMPUTER SCIENCE DEGREE

aspen university

Aspen University is a private, online university accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. Throughout its existence, Aspen University has undergone a few ownership changes but has now continued to meet the educational needs of distance learners in four schools in nursing, business and technology, education, and professional studies. The university gives students the chance to set low monthly payments for as low as $375 for doctorate degrees.

The Doctor of Science in Computer Science is offered with an affordable tuition rate of only $27,000 in total. This program aims to enhance studentsโ€™ skills in Doctoral Writing, Advanced Research, Technology Management, and Risk Analysis.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ASPEN UNIVERSITYโ€™S AFFORDABLE ONLINE DOCTOR OF COMPUTER SCIENCE PROGRAM

Bethel University-Minnesota

CHEAP ONLINE DOCTORATE IN MINISTRY (D.MIN.) DEGREE

bethel university of minnesota

Based in Arden Hills, Minnesota, Bethel University has since grown from a seminary into a private, evangelical university. It is the largest institution in the Christian College Consortium with over 5,600 students offering 106 majors, 10 masterโ€™s programs and 6 doctorate, graduate certificates, and licenses in education specialties. Bethel University has been duly accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1959.

Church education practitioners who want to pursue higher education in a non-traditional way can take up Doctor of Ministry completely online, economically at only $382 per credit with an estimated cost of $18,336. The program comes with a selection of 4 concentrations namely Transformational Leadership, Congregation and Family Care, Church Leadership, and Biblical and Theological Engagement.

LEARN MORE ABOUT BETHEL UNIVERSITYโ€™S CHEAP ONLINE DOCTORATE IN MINISTRY

University of North Dakota

CHEAP ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN EDUCATIONAL PRACTICE & LEADERSHIP DEGREE

University of North Dakota

University of North Dakota (UND) started with a strong liberal arts foundation in 1883. This flagship, space-grant public institution is located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and known for its programs in aerospace and aircraft systems and is the largest in the state with more than 14,000 students. It is proud to be one of the universities with the lowest tuition in the state.

Getting an online doctoral degree in Education in Educational Practice and Leadership (Ed.D.) in UND means low-priced tuition at only $418 per credit. Students may choose a synchronous or asynchronous track for this online program learning interdisciplinary focuses on innovation, equity, and leadership with a specialization in Higher Education, School Leadership, Special Education, or Teacher Education. Complete 90 credit hours in 3 years to graduate.

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTAโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN EDUCATIONAL PRACTICE & LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Affordable Doctorate Programs

University of Arkansas

AFFORDABLE ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN HUMAN RESOURCE AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION DEGREE PROGRAM

University of Arkansas

One of the most prestigious research universities in the nation, University of Arkansas (U of A) is known for its high-level research activity recognized by the Carnegie Foundation. It was established as a land-grant university in 1871 in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and offers 200 academic programs for undergraduate, masterโ€™s, doctoral, graduate certificate, and specialist programs. The U of A is a student-centered institution that enrolls over 27,000 students enrolled in both on-campus and high-ranking online programs.

You can be a โ€œRazorbackโ€ even without having to attend classes in the Fayetteville campus. Thanks to U of A Online, busy professionals can continue their education. If you want to achieve a doctorate degree in Education in Human Resource and Workforce Development Education, then you can do this with an affordable tuition rate of $420.19 per credit. All coursework is done 100% online in this multidisciplinary program. It covers fields in psychology, organizational behavior, quality management, and more.

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSASโ€™ ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN HUMAN RESOURCE AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION PROGRAM

Indiana University-Bloomington

LEAST EXPENSIVE ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN INSTRUCTIONAL SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY

indiana university bloomington

As the flagship of the Indiana University system, Indiana University-Bloomington ranks as a top-tier university and is known as the โ€œPublic Ivyโ€. Its history dates back in 1820 when it was named as the State Seminary and was renamed to Indiana University in 1839. Today, the university leads one of the public research institutions in the country. With more than 550 academic programs, the university aims to provide education in both traditional and non-traditional ways.

One of its online doctorate programs is the Doctor of Education in Instructional Systems Technology, (EdD). It is delivered entirely online and each credit hour only costs about $429.31 for in-state residents and $515.17 for out-of-state residents. You can earn this degree when you finish 60 credits of learning about research and technology when it comes to the improvement of the learning and performance of students young and old.

LEARN MORE ABOUT INDIANA UNIVERSITY-BLOOMINGTONโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN  INSTRUCTIONAL SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM

University of Massachusetts-Lowell

CHEAPEST ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN LEADERSHIP IN SCHOOLING DEGREE

Home to more than 18,000 River Hawks, the University of Massachusetts-Lowell (UMass-Lowell) has been accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and is a member unit of the University of Massachusetts system. U-Mass Lowell has been providing affordable and top-tier education since the 1890s. It is proud to be one of the top classes in research with over $69million in research and development spending.

As one of the largest non-profit online schools in New England, UMass Lowellโ€™s Division of Online and Continuing Education has been operating for over 17years giving part-time and full-time degree programs for students all over the world. Among these low-cost programs is the Doctor of Education in Leadership in Schooling, Ed.D. which only lets you pay $470 per credit hour. Students are required to take 2 courses each semester and complete the program in a span of 3 years.

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS-LOWELLโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN LEADERSHIP IN SCHOOLING PROGRAM

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

COST-EFFECTIVE ONLINE DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE (DNP) DEGREE

university of massachusetts amherst

This flagship campus of the University of Massachusetts is committed to continuing to be one of the most outstanding public research universities recognized by the Carnegie Foundation. University of Massachusetts- Amherst (UMass) is located close to the picturesque Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts with over 30,000 students enrolled in its 239 academic programs.

Prospective students can expect an inexpensive tuition rate for online programs like the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) which charges only $750 per credit. That means students only pay for as low as $27,000 in total, depending on the credits taken. DNPโ€™s curriculum is all offered online and is earned after completing 36-88 credits. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) is one of the top-ranked in online education.

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS-AMHERSTโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE PROGRAM

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

AFFORDABLE ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN ADULT LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEGREE PROGRAM

northwestern state university of louisiana

The Northwestern State University of Louisiana traces its roots back in 1884 established as a normal college for teacherโ€™s training and preparation Natchitoches, Louisiana. 134 years later, NSU grew and has expanded with other satellite locations in Shreveport, Alexandria and Fort Polk. It prides itself as one of the only six colleges to send students in NASAโ€™s Joint Venture Program for research in the shuttle mission in 1996.

NSUโ€™s Online Learning features a wide selection of affordable undergraduate, masterโ€™s, certificate, and specialist programs. Online students rely on affordability and convenience. They do not pay any out-of-state fees and tuition costs are at a flat rate. A degree in Doctor of Education in Adult Learning and Development lets you choose from either of its two specializations (Community College Leadership and Adult Learning and Workforce Development) at a rate of only $475 per credit. Whatโ€™s even better is that online programs can be taken through their fast-track classes.

LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANAโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN ADULT LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

The University of Louisiana at Monroe

CHEAPEST ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION DEGREE

university of louisiana monroe

The University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) is a unit of the University of Louisiana System and was originally founded as Ouachita Parish Junior College in 1931. After several name changes, ULM has expanded its programs including the addition of doctoral programs in 1969. Multiple offerings from the fields of Arts, Education, Business, Health Sciences, and Pharmacy are available both online and on-campus.

Online education at the University of Louisiana at Monroe has 35 programs that are offered completely online. Among its accelerated and low-cost programs is the Doctor of Education, Curriculum & Instruction. This extensive program consists of courses that can be taken in 8-week sessions and you can earn the degree for a total of $30,000 in as fast as 24 months. Students must achieve 60 credit hours to graduate.

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA AT MONROEโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION PROGRAM

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro

LEAST EXPENSIVE ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN KINESIOLOGY DEGREE

university of north carolina greensboro

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG), a public, coeducational research university is considered as the largest university in the Piedmont Triad. Its student body counts more than 19,000 Spartans enlisted in its 82 undergraduate majors, 74 masterโ€™s programs, and 32 doctoral programs. UNCG is a learner-centered university with academic schools in the areas of arts and sciences, education, business and economics, health sciences, and was one of the first schools that introduce Nanoscience and Nanoengineering.

UNCG Online is dedicated to giving world-class education through its innovative curriculum design and experiential learning. If youโ€™re an NC resident practitioner with 3-year experience and interested in getting a Doctor of Education in Kinesiology, a tuition rate of only $301.21 per credit hour is needed, which is a lot lower than on-campus rates. Full-time students can complete this program in 4 years with 54 credit hours and a dissertation.

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT GREENSBOROโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN KINESIOLOGY PROGRAM

Affordable Doctorate Programs

Old Dominion University

CHEAP ONLINE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY DEGREE PROGRAM

old dominion university


Located in Norfolk, Virginia, Old Dominion University serves more than 24,000 students and is proud to be one of the largest universities in the state. With its 8 academic colleges, the ODU offers more than 150 programs that the Monarchs can choose from. ODU prides itself as among the first-rate doctoral universities recognized by the Carnegie Classification of Higher Education.

Its Distance Learning is composed of 100 programs and one of them is the Doctor of Philosophy in Instructional Design & Technology. Students participate in scheduled meetings every day and must keep an eye on the academic calendar. Rates per credit hour range from $523 to $568 depending on residency, which is one of the lowest tuition rates for online programs. A masterโ€™s degree is required.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITYโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM

University of Northern Colorado

MOST AFFORDABLE ONLINE SPECIAL EDUCATION DOCTORATE DEGREE

University of Northern Colorado (UNC), as a normal state college, has built its reputation as a leader in teacher education since 1889. In 1935, it got its university status to recognize the expansion of the programs more particularly the higher education programs. Now, UNC is a public doctoral research university that serves more than 13,000 diverse students with 63% taking up graduate programs.

Its Extended Campus offers several programs in 17 areas of study with a flat rate of $630 per credit unit for both in-state and out-of-state students. You can start any term with its doctorate program in Special Education. The program is fully-online and full-time learners can work together with their mentors in three 16-week courses finishing in 3 years.

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN COLORADOโ€™S ONLINE SPECIAL EDUCATION DOCTORATE PROGRAM

Liberty University

CHEAP ONLINE DOCTOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION DEGREE PROGRAM

Liberty University

Built on a solid Christian foundation, Liberty University was founded as a liberal arts university in 1971 with 15,000 students enrolled. Now, the university operates with a student body of over 100,000 coming from all parts of the nation and more than 80 countries, making it the largest non-profit institution in the country. Learners can choose from over 600 programs both delivered in-seat and online.

Its distance education started in 1985 and is now known as Liberty University Online providing classes that last up to 8 weeks giving learners the freedom on how they want to study. Doctoral and post-graduate studies come in 7 schools. The School of Business offers one of the cheapest doctorate programs in Business Administration with 13 options for concentration, completely online for only $595 per credit.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LIBERTY UNIVERSITYโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

AFFORDABLE ONLINE DOCTOR OF SOCIAL WORK (DSW) IN CLINICAL PRACTICE AND LEADERSHIP DEGREE PROGRAM

University of Tennessee, Knoxville

As the flagship of the Tennessee university system, The University of Tennessee carries the title of being the oldest institution for higher education. It was established in the year 1794, prior to Tennessee becoming a state. The University of Tennessee provides 900 programs of study in its 11 colleges and many of which are graduate programs.

The Doctor of Social Work Degree (DSW) in Clinical Practice & Leadership Program is an intensive and advanced offering which is the only one of its kind in this university. The College of Social Work sees the need for the program in this field to enable graduates to develop advanced professional skills without having to leave their careers. For only $626 a credit, students can practice clinical research and leadership and finish with a total of 48 credit hours to earn the degree.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE-KNOXVILLEโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF SOCIAL WORK IN CLINICAL PRACTICE AND LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Affordable Doctorate Programs

Wilmington University

COST-EFFECTIVE ONLINE DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE (D.N.P.) WITH ADVANCED CONCENTRATION DEGREE

Wilmington University

Based in New Castle, Delaware, Wilmington University is a private and doctoral research institution that started out as Wilmington College founded by Dr. Donald Ross in 1968. Wilmington University guarantees low tuition rates to it almost 21,000 students enrolled in career-focused programs. The institution has additional sites throughout Delaware and other states like Maryland and New Jersey.

Learners working toward a doctorate degree through an online format can focus on Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with Advanced Concentration. The DNP program imparts experiential learning without having to require students any campus residency. For only $632 per credit hour, you can finish 33 credits and engage in practice-leadership learning. Learners are also expected to accomplish goals in advanced leadership skills and be able to apply it in their clinical practice.

LEARN MORE ABOUT WILMINGTON UNIVERSITYโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE WITH ADVANCED CONCENTRATION PROGRAM

University of Michigan-Flint

CHEAP ONLINE DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE DEGREE

The University of Michigan-Flint grew from a junior college offering liberal arts, business, and science programs for a bachelorโ€™s degree to becoming a four-year institution in 1964 with over 100-degree and certificate programs. Today, UM-Flint enrolls over 7,000 students including international students from 40 countries. Its in-demand degrees include undergraduate, masters, and doctorate.

The University of Michigan-Flint offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice with the option to concentrate on areas like Adult-Gerontology, Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health, and more. UM-Flint offers one of the best-value programs, especially for online students. The tuition rate per credit unit starts at $604 and with a wide array of financial aid and scholarships.

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-FLINTโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE PROGRAM

University of Missouri

AFFORDABLE ONLINE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN HUMAN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES DEGREE

university of missouri

The University of Missouri (or better known as Mizzou) is one of the top public research universities in the west. As the flagship of the University of Missouri System, Mizzou stands as the largest university in the state enrolling more than 30,000 students through its 19 schools and colleges including medical school, veterinary school, and law school.

Mizzou Online is composed of 100 programs for students preparing for self-based or semester-based courses. This program puts a spin among the ones on our list. A Doctor of Philosophy in Human Environmental Sciences with an emphasis in Architectural Studies program is offered 100% online with only $652.67 for its tuition and fees per credit hour. Complete 72 credits and acquire knowledge and skills in advanced architectural and interior design research.

LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURIโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN HUMAN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Hampton University

INEXPENSIVE ONLINE PH.D. IN NURSING DEGREE PROGRAM

Hampton University

With a strong and rich history, Hampton University (Hampton U) opened its doors as the first black college in 1868 located in Hampton, Virginia, named Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute, welcoming and granting education to freedmen. It currently offers 50 majors, 26 masterโ€™s programs, and 7 doctorate programs. It is duly accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Hampton U delivers distance education through Hampton U Online with a certificate, associate, bachelorโ€™s, masters, and doctoral offerings in several areas of study. Prospective students who have finished a masterโ€™s level in nursing are qualified for an online Ph.D. in Nursing with a specialization in Family and family-related research. The doctorate program requires 48 credit hours and offers $695 per credit.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITYโ€™S ONLINE Ph.D. IN NURSING PROGRAM

Central Michigan University

LOW-COST ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY DEGREE

central michigan university

Situated in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, Central Michigan University has grown from having 31 students in 1892 as a Normal School and Business Institute to serving 23,000 students in the present. Its offerings have also grown into comprehensive ones. In addition to 300 academic on-campus programs for the undergraduate, masterโ€™s, and doctoral levels, CMU Global Campus offers online programs with more than 9,000 students enrolled.

The schoolโ€™s Doctor of Education in Educational Technology requires 54 credit hours. The program prepares the student in a wide range of career areas in K-12 schools, community colleges, and 4-year colleges as an online curriculum specialist, educational developer, instructional designer, and more. Students work together with the faculty and other students for full online coursework. Tuition and fee per credit unit are only at $711.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITYโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM

Arizona State University

REASONABLY PRICED ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN LEADERSHIP AND INNOVATION DEGREE PROGRAM

arizona state university

Established in 1885, Arizona State University started out as the Territorial Normal School and has expanded and advanced into a public metropolitan research university with five campuses spanning Phoenix, Arizona for over a century. Its annual economic impact to Arizona has reached $4.3billion in total. ASU has been consistently in the top 10 in the nation for total research expenditures and stands as the largest public university in the US.

To earn an online doctorate degree in Education in Leadership & Innovation, students take courses in 7.5 weeks and must complete a total of 90 credit hours. Each credit hour costs $755 and applicants must have a masterโ€™s degree from any regionally accredited institution. This degree gives quality education and great career opportunities without having learners pay a hefty price.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITYโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN LEADERSHIP AND INNOVATION PROGRAM

Texas Tech University

LOW-COST ONLINE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SPECIAL EDUCATION DEGREE

texas tech university

Another classified in the โ€œVery High Research Activityโ€ category by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education on our list is Texas Tech University or also known as Texas Tech, located in Lubbock, Texas. Texas Tech is the flagship of the Texas Tech University System and is one of the largest universities in Texas with a student body of almost 40,000. It holds 60 research centers/institutes and offers inexpensive and flexible programs for Worldwide eLearning.

Among its 11 online doctorate programs, only 6 are offered 100% online. The Doctor of Philosophy in Special Education has an estimated cost of less than $300 for a tuition rate that follows the same schedule with the on-campus programs with coursework completed fully-online. A masterโ€™s degree is needed and students have to finish 90 credits to earn this degree

LEARN MORE ABOUT TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITYโ€™S ONLINE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

Affordable Doctorate Programs

Temple University

CHEAPEST ONLINE DOCTOR OF ATHLETIC TRAINING DEGREE

temple university

Admitting more than 40,000 students in its main campus in North Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and at its locations worldwide including Temple University Japan and Temple University Rome, Temple University was chartered in 1888 led by a celebrated Baptist minister named Russell Conwell. Temple University is labeled as R1 Research University and provides 500 academic programs in different schools and colleges.

The university lets you โ€œtake chargeโ€ of your education without sacrificing your careers with the help of their distance education at Temple Online. Doctorate programs in the fields of athletic training and occupational therapy are offered completely online for $975 per credit hour. Students take coursework by means of both synchronous and asynchronous methods in 6 and 15-week sessions and get to collaborate and work together with professional athletic trainers all over the country and worldwide.

cheapest university in uSA for international students 2023

Cheapest-PhD-Programs-in-USA
istockphoto.com

When it comes to taking a Ph.D. Program, the United States is a very nice and popular destination for international students although it can be very expensive. This has really scared a lot of students. That is why we have put down a list of the Cheapest PhD Programs in USA 2021 that you can go for. These Ph.D. programs to study in USA can help you achieve your dream of becoming an expert in your chosen field.A Ph.D. is a Doctoral degree, awarded to the student who completes an original thesis offering a significant new contribution to knowledge in their subjectPh.D. qualifications are also available in all subjects and are normally the highest level of academic degree a person can achieve and are also awarded for all the programs across the whole breadth of academic fields.Therefore, if you are a USA citizen or international student searching for the cheapest Ph.D. Programs in the USA or Ph.D. fees in the USA you are in the right place.This post gives you an insight into the most affordable and Cheapest Ph.D. Programs in the USA that you can really go for.

You can quickly scroll the table of content below to see all we have wrapped up in this post for you.

Tuition and Fees, Cost of Education

USA Cost, financial aid facts

  • The cost of the study per year (tuition and fees, does not include living expenses) in the USA varies from $5000 to $50000 (might be much more for MBA/Medical/Law and some other programs) per year.
  • The cost of living (food/housing etc) depends on the location. For example states like Washington, California and areas around New York are expensive.
  • In general cost of living for international students from countries (Most students are from: India, Bangladesh, China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, Middle East may vary from $6000 to $20000 per year). It is assumed that students will live in shared apartments, live out of campus and have fewer telephone bills and other expenses are at bay.
  • A portion of the living expenses can be met while working on-campus jobs. The hourly pay for the on-campus job varies from $7-8(min. wage) to $15 per (sometimes it may be $20 or more) hour depending on the type of work.
  • Major portion of you expenses are apartment rent and utilities (heat + electricity + cable + phone etc).
  • Getting financial aid is quite important otherwise it’s not easy to cover up your expenses + tuition fees (even if you do a summer internship it’s hard to cover the entire cost of education)!

Working on the Campus

  • International students (F1 visa) can work for 20 hrs per week and 40 hrs per week during summer. Students may be allowed to work out of campus (internship) after nine months(2 semesters) of their arrival in America.
  • Students receiving any financial aid like TA / RA / Fellowship/tuition waiver / out-of-state waiver or GA need not have to worry about costs.
  • Students not receiving any financial aid must be prepared for tuition fees and living cost for an initial 2-3 months (also please note: getting an on-campus job might take some time.. earlier you come the better).
  • In some universities like the University of Missouri-Tech and the University of Texas-Arlington, there is a huge shortage of P/T jobs (Why? because these are university towns and everyone is looking for P/T jobs on campus). So students planning to go to these universities must either have scholarships or adequate funds.
  • It’s highly recommended to contact current students via email for the latest information regarding financial aid, P/T job scene, internships, etc.
  • In some universities, students can pay the fees of their last semester after graduation.
  • Some Universities may grant tuition waivers (or even in-state fees) after the first semester (if your performance in the 1st semester is good). It is also possible that some other department may offer a scholarship (Like you might be doing MBA but you might find a software job in Medical college, and they might offer you scholarships).

See where the money goes

GRE
The General Test is US ~$205 for individuals testing in the United States, U.S. Territories, and Puerto Rico, US $221 for individuals testing in China, including Hong Kong, Korea, and Taiwan, and the US $205 for individuals testing in all other locations ($230 for Australia).

TOEFL
TOEFL Costs around $180 – $300 (fees varies by country/region).

  • GRE + TOEFL~$410 (around)
  • Application Fees varies from $0 (Some colleges have zero application fees) to $150
  • Tuition Fees will cost between $5000 to $50000
  • Basic Health Insurance may Cost up to 500$ (per semester)
  • Books may cost up to $1000 (actually may be much cheaper .. you can get used books from Amazon!)
  • Traveling to USA may cost up to $300-$1400
  • Cost of Living will vary from one city to other and can be anything between $500 to $2000 per month (Assuming Simple Life with shared accommodation)
  • Traveling cost within US may be up to $500.
  • Basic cellphone bill might be ~$30 (smartphone will be more like $50) per month.
  • If you own a car (you might have to at some point) – car insurance can vary from $50/month to $200/month depending your location/vehicle/history etc.
  • Daily bus/train ride might cost 50-$150/month (depends on your commute).

Tuition fees for some Universities. Cheap Universities – Low cost universities

Texas A&M, the University of Texas at Austin, Iowa State University, University of Utah are really good and one of the most affordable universities in the USA (yes even for international students!).

UniversityTuition (MS Programs) Fees (USD/yr)*More+
University Of Texas at Dallas25000(Out-of-State)
13000(In-state)
Very Few P/T jobs are available. Normal cost of Living.
University of Texas at Arlington18000(Out-of-State)
9000(In-state)
Very Few P/T jobs are available. Normal living costs.
NJIT28000(Out-of-State)
20000(In-State)
Financial aid is tough. Cost of living little is higher.
Texas A&M University19000(Out-of-State), 9000 (in-state)Normal cost of Living. Financial aid generally given after one sem.
Arizona State University27000(Out-of-State)
13000(In-State)
Financial aid is avg.
University of Arizona33000 (Out-of-State)
14000 (In-State)
Chances of getting funding is better after one sem.
Illinois Institute of Technology31000Financial aid is tough
University at Buffalo – SUNY13000(Out-of-State)
8500(In-state)
Less financial aid… good for Ph.D.
Ohio State University27000(Out-of-State)
15000(In-State)
Financial aid generally after one sem.
University of South California44000Very Few aid opportunities (almost none for MS). Get Financial aid in beginning or You should have enough funds.
University of Cincinnati29000(Out-of-State)
16000(In-State)
Good at financial aid. Good Location. Most MS Students are supported.
University of Illinois, Chicago29000(Out-of-State)
18000 (In-State)
Financial aid requires good GRE/GPA. Good Location.
University of Florida24000(Out-of-State)
12000(In-State)
Reputed University. Nice Location. Good Placements.
Clemson University21000(Out-of-State)
11000(In-State)
Ok aid Scene. Respected.
Missouri University of Science and Technology30000 (Out-of-state)
12000(In-state)
Excellent in Electromagnetics. Fair aid Scene. Respected.
Wayne State University26000(Out-of-State)
14000(In-state)
Cheap. P/T available easily.
Washington State University26000(Out-of-State)
13000(In-State)
Good aid Scene.Respected. Excellent Location
University of Wisconsin-Madison27000(Out-of-State)
13000(In-State)
Top Ranked University.
Portland State University19000(Out-of-State)
14000(In-State)
Good for VLSI. Good location for VLSI.
University of Dayton18000Good for Aerospace. No application fee.
North Carolina State University25000(Out-of-State)
1000(In-State)
Excellent location. Ranked University.
Drexel University34000Good location.
University of Utah23000(Out-of-State)
7000(In-State)
good for EE/CS.Cheap. Respected
University of Houston19000 (out-of-state)
11000(In-State)
Good for Telecom. Excellent Location.
University of North Carolina Charlotte22000(Out-of-State)
9000(In-State)
Fair aid scene.

*Approx.
The Cost is in US$ and Includes Tuition and Fees (for 2 semesters/one yr.)

Average Undergraduate Tuition and Fees for 2020/2021 for Top 20 most expensive states

Note: Only Top 300 US colleges/universities were included: 

is phd free in uSA for international students

In todayโ€™s era, if you wish to be considered for top-level academic and non-academic positions abroad, doctoral programs are a necessity. Several top American universities offer Ph.D. programs, but not all of them are cost-effective.

Fortunately, some universities lower studentsโ€™ financial burdens and provide fully-funded Ph.D. programs in the USA for international students.

Scholarships for PhD. Programs In The USA

The Fully-funded Ph.D. programs in the USA cover various programs such as studentships, scholarships, and grant and bursaries programs. Some American universities offer fully-funded doctoral projects as well. 

These fully-funded Ph.D. programs in the USA for international students do not cover only research council studentship. Usually, they also include:

  • Travel grants and conference funding
  • Resource grants 
  • Writing-up funding 
  • Hardship funding
Study in the USA
MS in Project Management in USAMS in Data Analytics in USA
BCA in USAMS in Project Management in USA
MS in Artificial Intelligence in USAMS in Cybersecurity in USA
MS in Information Technology

Eligibility for Country/Course 

These fully-funded Ph.D. programs in the USA for international students are doctoral programs. Moreover, since these programs are also for out-of-state students, there is no restriction on the countryโ€™s eligibility. 

Additionally, the range of fully-funded Ph.D. programs in the US varies from small grants to full studentships.

Level of Scholarship 

The doctoral programs are the highest academic degrees awarded to a student by a university. You will only be eligible for the fully-funded Ph.D. program if you have completed a pre-requisite or postgraduate program. 

The Ph.D. would involve the students engaging independently in original research in a particular field or subject of their choice. 

Tenure/Duration

The duration of fully-funded Ph.D. programs in the USA can differ for various streams or students. American universities usually have some time restrictions. Generally, it is three to five years.

Subject/Fields for Fully Funded PhD. Programs In The USA

The USAโ€™s fully funded Ph.D. programs for international students generally do not cover specific programs. Some scholarships provided by certain universities can be only for particular fields. For instance, the Rice University Fully Funded Doctoral program is restricted to some majors which include:

  • Architecture
  • Business
  • Engineering 
  • Humanities 
  • Music
  • Natural Sciences 
  • Social Sciences

Several scholarships, grants, and studentships are available for Ph.D. programs in the US. Some of them are sponsored by organizations, while the universities push others. 

We have listed some common ones below for your reference:

  • Microsoft Research Dissertation Grant for Doctoral Students
  • IBM Fellowship Awards Program for Ph.D. Students
  • Facebook Emerging Scholar Programme
  • Microsoft Research Scholarship for Scholars in Europe Africa Middle East (EMEA)
  • Columbia University International Postdoctoral Humanities Fellowship
  • University of Michigan African Presidential Scholars Program (UMAPS)
  • PEO International Peace Scholarship for Women to Study in USA and Canada
Learn More About Studying in the USA
MBA in Logistics and Supply Chain Management in USABachelorโ€™s in Computer Science in the USAMasters in Dentistry in the USA
MBA in Finance in the USAMasterโ€™s in Graphic Design in the USAData Analytics Companies in the USA
MS in Data Analytics in the USAMBA in the USAMasters in Petroleum Engineering in USA
MS in the USAWestern Michigan UniversityData Analytics Salary in USA

Some of the US universities that provide fully-funded PhD programs are listed in the table mentioned below:

US Universities Fully Funded Ph.D. ProgramsAwards
Harvard UniversityPh.D. in Biological Sciences in Public HealthFull fee waiver
University of ChicagoPh.D. in AnthropologyFull fee waiver
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyPh.D. in Business USD 4,035.50 (INR 3.33 Lakh) + Travel expenses for a term of 5 years i.e., USD 4,500 (INR 3.72 Lakh + a new laptop is given)
Rice University โ€“ Jones Graduate School of BusinessPh.D. in Business A tuition waiver and a USD 40,000 (INR 33 Lakh) annual stipend
University of Iowaโ€™s Tippie College of BusinessPh.D. degrees in Accounting, Economics, Finance, Management, Business Analytics, and Marketing Full tuition and fees, a minimum nine-months stipend of about USD 20,041 (INR 16.54 Lakh), with annual adjustments, and comprehensive health insurance.
Cornell UniversityPh.D. in Chemical Engineering Full tuition waiver, stipend, and health insurance
Emory UniversityPh.D. in Economics USD 31,775 (INR 26.23 Lakh) per year for five years, and the full-tuition scholarship is worth USD 65,700 (INR 54.23 Lakh) per year.
Boston UniversityPh.D. in English a stipend of about USD 28,000 (INR 23.10 Lakh) plus full tuition, fees, and basic health insurance
Duke UniversityPh.D. in Nursing Full tuition and a 12-months stipend
Columbia UniversityPh.D. in Clinical Psychology Fully funded tuition and a USD 25,000 (INR 20.64 Lakh) stipend annually for four years.

(Source: usnews.com)

Application Duration of Fully Funded PhD. Programs In The USA

Application deadlines and notifications will vary according to the grant or scholarship you apply to. Following are the tentative application deadlines for the above-mentioned fully-funded Ph.D. programs.

Fully-funded Ph.D. Program NameApplication Deadline (Tentative)
Microsoft Research Dissertation Grant for Doctoral StudentsLast week of March
IBM Fellowship Awards Program for Ph.D. StudentsLast week of October
Facebook Emerging Scholar ProgrammeMid September
Microsoft Research Scholarship for Scholars in Europe Africa Middle East (EMEA)First week of June
Columbia University International Postdoctoral Humanities FellowshipFirst week of October
University of Michigan African Presidential Scholars Program (UMAPS)Mid October
PEO International Peace Scholarship for Women to Study in USA and CanadaMid December

Mode of Application 

The mode of application for all these fully-funded Ph.D. programs in the USA for international students is online.

Eligibility Criteria And Additional Requirements 

The eligibility criteria and additional requirements will vary according to different funding programs. To give you all an insight, here are the entry requirements for the IBM Fellowship Awards Program for Ph.D. Students.

Applications are welcome for students from all nationalities. However, all such nominees:

  • cannot nominate themselves and instead must be selected by the doctoral faculty member 
  • have to be enrolled full-time in a Ph.D. program over two consecutive academic years of the award/forfeit the fellowship
  • must have three years remaining in the program at the nomination time so the fellowship can be used for the last two years of study
  • cannot be from the US-embargoed countries 
  • should be in the same program for the award duration. Transferring departments or schools is not allowed  

Value of Scholarship 

The value of scholarships will also differ according to various funding programs for Ph.D. On average,  USD 25,000 to USD 40,000 (INR 20,63,363 to INR 33,01,380)

Selection Process 

The selection process of fully-funded Ph.D. programs in the USA is based on three factors:

  • Merit-based funding
  • Need-based funding
  • International funding

Requirements for Continuing Scholarships

Major fully-funded Ph.D. programs renew automatically for the next year varies on the basis of the student program.

Interested to Study In USA? Apply for Free Counselling

Top Universities in the USA
City University of SeattleUniversity of North Carolina Chapel HillUniversity of Connecticut
Oregon State UniversityAdelphi UniversityClemson University
National University CaliforniaLewis UniversityKnoxville University
Georgia Institute of TechnologySan Jose State UniversityUniversity of North Texas

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *