Admission to PhD programs in clinical psychology is very competitive. Ratios of 300 applicants to 8 positions are common (though perhaps 10-15 people would have to be accepted to fill the 8 slots; some who are accepted decide to go elsewhere, or enter a different kind of graduate or professional program ).

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how competitive are clinical psychology phd programs

First of all the sad truth is that it is now extremely difficult to get into university-based Clinical Psychology PhD programs. I have heard that these programs are more difficult to get into than medical school (another option for graduate training that is outside the scope of this discussion). Many, if not most, students wanting to get doctoral training in Clinical Psychology will by necessity have to go to a freestanding professional school.

I get asked a lot by undergraduate students about how to get into a Ph.D. program in clinical or counseling psychology. These programs are competitive. This past year, we had about 170 applicants for 8 spots. Because of this, it’s important to understand the process, and know what you can do to give yourself the best shot to be accepted. Here are 11 guidelines for how to get into a Ph.D. program in counseling or clinical psychology:

how hard is it to get into a phd program for clinical psychology

Guideline 1: Make Sure This is the Type of Program you Want

There are many different types of graduate degrees in psychology. A Ph.D. in clinical or counseling psychology is a great degree, but it isn’t the best choice for everyone. Here are some things to think about when choosing a program.

PhD in Clinical or Counseling Psychology

• Research is a big component of the training. If you aren’t interested in spending a lot of time learning how to do research and write up papers, this might not be the best program for you.
• Probably the best choice to prepare you to teach at the university level.
• Gives you the flexibility to become a licensed psychologist and see clients.
• Usually the best in terms of financial support. Many schools will pay your tuition and give you a stipend for being a teaching or research assistant.
• Most difficult to get into.

PsyD in Clinical Psychology

• More clinically focused. You still have to do a dissertation project (usually), but there isn’t as much focus on research and writing.
• Usually some limits in regard to the places you can teach at the university level.
• Prepares you to become a licensed psychologist (same license as a Ph.D. program).
• Usually expensive (financial support usually isn’t great).
• Usually easier to get into than a Ph.D. program.

Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology, Counseling, or Social Work

• Can be used as a stepping stone toward a Ph.D. program if you don’t have the grades, scores, or experience to get into a Ph.D program directly out of your undergraduate program.
• Can get licensed to counsel.
• Program is shorter (usually 2 years). Can get a job more quickly. Not as much debt. Also a good option if you aren’t sure you want to get your doctorate.
• Easier to get into than Ph.D. programs.
• Doesn’t prepare you for teaching at the university level.
• Long-term drawback is that when counseling, your reimbursement from insurance companies is lower than if you had your Ph.D. or Psy.D. This is a significant difference and over the long run, a Ph.D. or Psy.D. will make more money. Also usually not as much training in assessment.

Don’t rush over this first guideline. It’s important to think critically about your long-term goals, and what you want to get out of a graduate program. The rest of the guidelines will focus on how to get into a Ph.D. program in counseling or clinical psychology.

Guideline 2: Clinical or Counseling?

The short answer is it isn’t that big of a deal… There are some differences between clinical and counseling psychology, but most of them are historical. Clinical psychology historically has focused on more intense psychopathology. Counseling psychology historically has focused on less severe psychopathology, and more in areas such as positive psychology, multicultural counseling, and career counseling. But nowadays there is lots of crossover between clinical and counseling psychology programs. Both types of programs compete for the same internships. You get the same license to practice when you are finished. It’s better to select your program based on research match with a faculty member.

Guideline 3: Find a Research Match with a Faculty Member

Research training will be a big part of your Ph.D. program. In most programs, you apply to a person, meaning that you will be matched with a faculty member whose research interests align with your own. If your research interests do not align with a faculty member, it is unlikely you will be accepted into that program. So do your homework when selecting programs. There’s a great book called the Insider’s Guide to Graduate Programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology that is updated every two years. It has information on each program, including the type of research that faculty members are conducting. Another way to find research mentors is to do a PsycINFO or GoogleScholar search on your research interests, and identify people who are doing research in your area of interest. Then you can apply to their program.

Guideline 4: Get Good Grades

Most students applying to clinical and counseling Ph.D. programs will have excellent grades. Almost everyone will have above a 3.5 GPA. Most will be in the 3.8/3.9 range. This can make it tough for individuals who got off to a slow start in college. If your grades aren’t where they need to be, it might be a good idea to look at master’s programs as a possible backup. If you get good grades in your master’s program, the focus will be on your grades as a whole (undergraduate AND graduate).

Guideline 5: Rock the GRE

The GRE is the one thing that is consistent across applicants. Applicants come from different types of schools, so it can be difficult to compare factors such as grades across applicants. But the GRE is consistent across applicants, and because of that, it gets a lot of weight. This is a tough pill to swallow for students who don’t like standardized tests, or who don’t think they are good at standardized tests. But it is the reality. Most students applying to Ph.D. programs will have high GPAs, will have worked in a research lab, and will have had some clinical experience. But the GRE is where you see a lot of separation. The take home message is to do everything you can to prepare for the GRE and do the best you can. There is no substitute for this. It’s that important. So do whatever it is you need to do. Take practice tests. Go through the study materials. Take a GRE prep class. Get a tutor. Give it your best shot.

Guideline 6: Get Research Experience

Research experience is important. Research is a huge component of your Ph.D. program, and professors want to know that you are serious about research and have some experiences getting your feet wet in this area. Almost everyone applying to Ph.D. programs will have experience working in a research lab, usually for multiple semesters. This can be viewed as a minimum. There are other things you can do to help stand out in terms of research experience. Completing your own personal project or honors thesis is good. Having presentations at conferences is good. Having a publication or two is great—this can really make you stand out.

Guideline 7: Get Clinical Experience

Clinical experience isn’t usually as important as research experience. Still, clinical training is a big component of a Ph.D. program, and again, professors want to know that you are serious about this commitment and have some prior experiences in this area. Gaining clinical experience can be difficult as an undergraduate student. But usually there are creative ways this can be done. For example, you might be able to volunteer at a psychiatric hospital. You could volunteer for a crisis line. Perhaps you could volunteer at a shelter for persons recovering from domestic violence. You want to have some experience in this area.

Guideline 8: Get Good Letters of Recommendation

You are required to get letters of recommendation as part of your application (usually 3). You want to have good letters of recommendation. This generally means that you need to have contact with a professor over and above just sitting in their class and receiving an A. This would be an example of a bad letter of recommendation. To get a good letter of recommendation, the professor needs to know who you are and have some consistent contact with you. A good example of this would be a professor whom you worked for in their research lab.

Guideline 9: Write a Good Personal Statement

Most programs require you to write a personal statement. Aim for about two pages. A good personal statement generally has the following sections:

• Introduction, perhaps something about yourself and how you became interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology (approx. 1 paragraph).
• Description of your research experiences (approx. 2 paragraphs).
• Description of your clinical experiences (approx. 1 paragraph).
• Discussion of what draws you to the particular program (approx. 1 paragraph).
• Discussion of what draws you to the particular research professor (approx. 1 paragraph).
• Conclusion that cements your desire and energy to pursue a Ph.D. from that particular school and professor. You could bring in some evidence for why you are a particularly strong candidate (e.g., awards, honors, etc.; approx. 1 paragraph).

Have some people read over and edit your personal statement. Good readers would be professors or psychology graduate students. It’s also not a bad idea to hire an editor to polish up your writing.

Guideline 10: Have a Good CV (Resume)

Most programs require you to submit a CV. A good CV generally has the following sections:

• Contact information
• Education (school, credits, overall GPA, psychology GPA)
• GRE test results
• Research experiences (descriptions of work, presentations, publications)
• Clinical experiences (descriptions of work)
• Honors and awards
• Work experiences, volunteer experiences
• References

Guideline 11: Apply Broadly

Ph.D. programs in clinical and counseling psychology are difficult to get into. Because of this, it’s a good idea to apply broadly. Apply to a lot of schools (10-15), even if you think you are a strong candidate. If possible, don’t limit yourself geographically. Also, it’s a good idea to apply to some backup schools (e.g., master’s programs). Try not to get discouraged if you don’t get into a Ph.D. program the first time around. Take a look at your application and evaluate what parts need improving. Are there areas that you could improve to really stand out? It’s also a good idea to ask other professors or graduate students to evaluate your application and advise where you might be able to improve.

Good Luck!

Preparing and applying to a Ph.D. program in clinical or counseling psychology is a lot of work, and these programs are very difficult to get into. But it’s a great education, and psychology is an awesome field to be in. So if it’s what you want to do, stick with it. As Benjamin Franklin once said, “Energy and persistence conquers all things.”

A doctorate degree, the highest attainable degree in most educational systems, is also considered the peak of academic challenge. We often hear how this prestigious post-graduate achievement requires long-term effort to define, develop, and complete original and significant research in their area of expertise.

A recent economic report, from WeForum.org, indicates that the United States produces the most number of Ph.D. graduates. Most scholars are awarded doctorates in the STEM fields. Doctorate degree students are expected to possess a high literacy level, advanced research and communication skills, and a competent level of understanding of complex material.

Today, earning a Ph.D. is made easier with distance learning formats. As opposed to keeping strictly fixed study schedules and spending a considerable amount of time, money, and effort on campus under the close supervision of research mentors, online doctorate students comply with doctoral course requirements and conduct research work in virtual classrooms.

An easy doctorate that is earned online enhances your capacity to earn and raises your eligibility for top-level careers in your area of expertise. Doctorate degrees prepare students for leadership positions and highly skilled professions in various sectors, as well as university-level professorships.

Careers And Salaries To Consider With An Easy Online Doctoral Degree

Anything worth working for is not always easy, right? Your chosen doctoral program is one of the most important decisions you can make along your educational journey. Although most Ph.D. programs are rather costly, there are some that are easier than others, as well as, less time consuming and less expensive.

Typically, there are three areas of concentration that students focus on if in search of an “easy” doctoral degree program through an online distance learning format. Specifically, they are in the fields of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education. The following list suggests a few career choices and their annual salaries relevant to earning an easy online doctorate degree:

• Advertising & Marketing Executive – $134,290
• Law/Attorney – $120,910
• Political Scientist – $117,570
• Economist – $104,340
• Professor – $78,470
• Communications/Journalist – $66,880
• FBI Agent – $62,787
• Human Resource Specialist – $60,880
• Social Worker – $49,470
• Counseling – $44,630

Quite naturally, the above salaries will depend greatly upon your previous work experience, job location, and your educational accomplishments and certifications. Careers involving the fields of Health, Science, and Engineering will pay considerably more with an online doctoral degree.

least competitive psychology phd programs

We help you take the easy route to your Ph.D.! On this list are 30 online schools in the country that welcome advanced scholars to their easy online doctorate programs. We feature each of the school’s doctorate curricula and highlight how the flexibility in schedule and self-paced formats translate to convenience in completing the program. OSC has chosen to list the Top 30 Online Schools for Easy Online Doctoral Programs in random order, so you may carefully research each selection to locate a program that is right for you! The following factors were considered:

• Completion of a program through a 100% online format; offering asynchronous classwork through an easy-to-use Learning Management System,
• Acceptable retention rates,
• Offers proper school accreditation, as well as, other recognitions relevant to the field of study,
• Instructed by exceptional professors experienced in their field of study,
• Job placement, Career Services and networking opportunities available to graduates,
• Offers a variety of easy online doctoral degree options; providing opportunities for students to easily earn their graduate degree through accelerated programs, by saving money, and by earning a Ph.D. while maintaining their current job and family commitments,
• Displays positive student reviews,
• Easy dissertation process; often completed entirely through the online distance learning format,
• When applicable, clinical experience, hands-on training, capstone projects, or professional life credit experience may be required.

Also, please see our Methodology page for additional details on how OSC selected these fine schools for the Easiest Online Ph.D. Programs for 2020.

Regent University

EASY ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

Located in Denver, Colorado, Regent University offers easy online doctorate degree programs such as Ph.D. in Communication, Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies, and Ph.D. in Adult Education. Another easy online doctorate degree is the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. This program is ideal for nurses seeking advanced expertise and career advancement in the field. The 51- to 60-credit program curriculum is composed of courses that aim to enhance students’ skills.  Learning is made easier through the university’s virtual mentoring for the whole span of the dissertation research. The program has 2-year and 3-year summer options on an eight-week coursework format. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University

ONLINE EASIEST PH.D. PROGRAMS

Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota offers easy online doctorate programs such as Ph.D. in Criminal Justice, Ph.D. in Nursing, and Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology. It accepts the transfer of 55 credits for easier completion in two to three years, featuring highly accessible online resources. Walden University has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

Liberty University

EASY ONLINE DISTANCE LEARNING DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAMS

Situated in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers easy online doctorate degree programs like Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision, Ph.D. in Theology & Apologetics, and Ph.D. in Worship Studies. Another doctorate degree which is purely online in format is the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) program. Doctoral students can hone their ministry skills and acquire an effective understanding of biblical principles required to land pastoral roles. Students also engage with known church leaders while pursuing their doctorate. The 33-credit curriculum is composed of a nine-hour credit thesis and six transferable credits. Utilizing the Blackboard platform, Liberty Flames accepts 45 to 70 credits. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and allows for completion of the online Ph.D. program within two to three years.

Hampton University

DISTANCE LEARNING PH.D. EASY PROGRAMS

Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia offers easy online doctorate degree programs such as Ph.D. in Business Administration, Ph.D. in Educational Management, and Ph.D. in Nursing. These degree programs can be easily completed through professional life experience credits, more interesting coursework, and hands-on training in 36 months or less. Hampton University has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Nova Southeastern University

EASY DOCTORAL PROGRAMS ONLINE

Located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Nova Southeastern University offers easy online doctorate degree programs such as Ph.D. in Health Sciences, Ph.D. in Conflict Analysis & Resolution, and Post-Professional Ph.D. in Occupational Therapy. Online coursework is readily accessible 24/7. Learning is also easier through the Blackboard program and the university’s summer sessions. Online doctorate students can choose from three majors, which can all be completed in two to three years. The university is also accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Keiser University

EASIEST ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

Keiser University at Fort Lauderdale, Florida features 11 easy online Ph.D. programs such as Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, Ph.D. in Business Administration, and Ph.D. in General Psychology. Learning is convenient through the Blackboard program, particularly for dissertation research. Keiser University has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

University of Tennessee – Knoxville

EASY TO EARN ONLINE DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAM

Situated at Knoxville, Tennessee, the University of Tennessee-Knoxville offers an online Doctor of Social Work in Clinical Practice and Leadership (DSW) program under the College of Social Work. Because of its fast-track format, students can quickly complete the doctorate in three years. They attend three-credit-hour courses every semester over eight continuous semesters including during the summer. The 48-credit coursework is delivered in both synchronous and asynchronous formats. The University of Tennessee-Knoxville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Bradley University

EASY ONLINE DISTANCE LEARNING FORMAT PH.D. PROGRAM

Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois offers two easy alternatives to earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree online. First is the DNP – Leadership Track (MSN Entry), which can be completed in three years. Those who started with the BSN pathway towards a DNP usually finish the program in four years. The DNP- Leadership Track is composed of 39 credit hours and takes typically nine semesters to complete. What makes this doctorate easy to earn is that it does not require residency; instead, students need to accomplish a clinical practicum and a clinical project. Students can also be easily admitted into the degree program three times a year. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Monmouth University

ONLINE EASIEST DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAM

West Long Branch, New Jersey is home to Monmouth University, an academic institution that offers the online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program. This program is ideal for practicing nursing professionals who desire career advancement. The 36-credit hour online program allows students to choose one or two courses every semester during the summer, spring, or fall. The online doctorate program emphasizes organizational or systems leadership and scholarship. Earning the doctorate is also easier through practical immersion experiences. The university has received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The Maryville University of St. Louis

EASIEST DISTANCE LEARNING PH.D. DEGREE PROGRAM

Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Maryville University offers an online Doctor of Nursing (DNP) program. Its 33-credit hour curriculum is ideal for working nurses who want to take higher courses for career advancement. Easy completion is attained in 20 months. On the other hand, the Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership is regarded as an easy doctorate as it features personalized coaching in a cohort learning model-based online setting. This degree can be completed in less than 32 months. Maryville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Seton Hall University

ONLINE EASY DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAM

Seton Hall University at South Orange, New Jersey, offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program for students and working adults who want to acquire the highest clinical degree in the nursing field. Students learn advanced knowledge in population health, business and evidence-based approaches, and healthcare systems.

Accredited by the university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Seton Hall University’s DNP doctorate program features two pathways, namely the BSN to DNP pathway with 73 to 79 credits, and the MSN to DNP pathway which has 32 to 33 credits. Easy completion of the degree program can be expected through a final scholarly project that mainly focuses on quality improvement and translational science for the advancement of care systems, safety, and patient outcomes. On the other hand, the Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership, Management and Policy have only 45 credits, with topics that develop students’ research-based administrative and supervisory skills. There are two unique areas of focus, namely Management and Administration, and College Teaching that can be completed in three years or less.

University of Florida

EASIEST DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAM ONLINE

The University of Florida offers doctoral students an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program under the College of Nursing. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is regarded as one of the state’s pioneer doctorate programs. There are two doctorate tracks for this discipline, namely the BSN to DNP and the MSN to DNP tracks that are delivered online with minimal attendance required on campus. The 35-credit doctorate program can be completed in five semesters or two and a half years. Acquiring practical knowledge without the hassle of research projects is made easier through this DNP doctorate program. Meanwhile, the BSN to DNP program requires 75 credits and can take around eight semesters or three years to be completed. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

College of St. Scholastica

EASY TO EARN ONLINE DISTANCE LEARNING PH.D. PROGRAM

Located in Duluth, Minnesota, the College of St. Scholastica features and online Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) program. This tDPT program is designed for practicing therapists.  Learning is easier since the program curriculum is condensed into six, 16-credit-hour classes. The doctorate is expected to be completed in two years. The doctorate is geared towards intensive career preparation and hands-on experiences in the field of physical therapy. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Duquesne University

EASIEST ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAM

Duquesne University in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program. This program is ideal for doctoral students who are prepared for career advancement. What is makes this program easy to take is that each student can connect and interact with one faculty member and work on a one-on-one study plan. The 35-credit hour program is delivered entirely online and is divided into nine three-credit courses and two four-credit courses. Learning is much easier since the program is geared toward offering students with advanced knowledge and preparation while learning more about themselves and how they can contribute to the academic community. Students also may benefit from the 14:1 student-to-faculty online ratio. Students can easily complete the program in two years or less. There is no GRE required, and opportunities to study abroad are also available. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Gwynedd Mercy University

DISTANCE LEARNING EASY DOCTORATE PROGRAM

In Gwynedd Valley, Pennsylvania, Gwynedd Mercy University offers an easy, accelerated Executive Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership ABD completion program. This completion program is ideal for those who were able to complete their coursework in the same field but need to work on their dissertation. What makes this program an easy one to take is that it does not focus on the completed dissertation as the university itself permits students to leave their ABD (All But Dissertation) status and still obtain a doctorate in education. In 18 months, students can complete 27 to 54 credit hours of coursework and practical experience. Students can also complete their doctorate through comprehensive research, school administration, or policy analysis. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Boston University

EASY TO EARN ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAM

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Boston University in Boston, Massachusetts offers an online Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree program under the College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. The 33 to 37-credit program curriculum is composed of 10 courses. Aside from this, students can also complete six foundation courses, depending on past educational experiences before taking up a doctorate. Learning is easier because online students can take two courses every semester, with each semester lasting seven weeks.

Frontier Nursing University

ONLINE EASY DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAM

Situated in Hyden, Kentucky, Frontier Nursing University offers the online Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program. The DNP program is ideal for registered nurses who wish to take their careers and knowledge to the next level. Two pathways exist for easy completion, namely a Post Master’s DNP and an MSN or Post-Graduate Certificate (PGC) leading to a DNP. Easy completion of the doctorate can be attributed to the fact that students have the option to earn a DNP in 12, 15, or 18 months. Online classes consist of only 20 to 25 students. The MSN pathway requires 28 credit hours for completion. While most online, the doctorate program at Frontier Nursing University also features an interesting three-day-on-campus experience. The university received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

ONLINE EASY PH.D. PROGRAM

The University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill in Chapel Hill, North Carolina features online doctorate degree programs in the health sciences such as Ph.D. in Nursing,  Master of Public Health to Doctor of Pharmacy, and Transitional Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy degrees. On a part-time basis, the DPT program can be easily completed in two years. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Southern California

DISTANCE LEARNING EASY TO EARN DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAM

Located in Los Angeles, California, the University of Southern California offers the online Doctor of Social Work and Global Executive Doctor of Education degree programs. The Doctor of Social Work can be easily completed in two to three years through numerous specializations. The coursework can be accomplished with full-time pacing and students can access an open virtual community through the Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. As for the Global Executive Doctor of Education, students are given the opportunity to travel abroad for 25 months. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of North Dakota

ONLINE EASIEST PH.D. PROGRAM

The University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota offers online students easy doctorate programs such as Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Ph.D. in Nursing, DNP – Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, DNP-Family Nurse Practitioner. DNP-Nurse Anesthesia, and DNP-Nursing Practice.

Six various specializations are offered to students for them to choose as majors, and these take three years or less to complete with full-time and part-time attendance options. Students are also given the opportunity to interact with their professors and peers through the university’s virtual environment. The university has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

Drexel University

EASY DOCTORATE PROGRAMS ONLINE

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Drexel University offers easy online doctorate programs such as Doctor of Health Science, Doctor of Nursing Practice, Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Management degree programs with nine fields of specialization. The coursework can be quickly completed in four 10-week quarters a year, allowing students to take more courses within a short timeframe. This Ed.D. program can be completed in three to five years. It does not require residency, and all coursework and dissertation requirements can be completed online. Students also become part of cohort systems, exposing them to academic network opportunities. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Bridgeport

EASY ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAM

The University of Bridgeport in Bridgeport, Connecticut features an easy online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership degree program and the D.H.Sc. Health Sciences degree program. Students may specialize in International Education wherein they can master the principles of educational leadership and integrate multi-cultural global concerns into organizational settings. In the D.H.Sc. Hybrid program, students can focus on education and curriculum enhancement, public health, evidence-based care delivery, and research. The flexible coursework allows for quick degree attainment in three years or less. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited the University of Bridgeport.

Jefferson University

EASY TO EARN DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAM ONLINE

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Jefferson University offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program. Learning is easier for these two online doctorate programs since the goal of the university is to allow students to engage in an interactive online community, where there is an open exchange of ideas and creativity is given more significance. For the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program, nurses can easily adapt to changes in the healthcare industry due to intensive, yet enjoyable hands-on training. As for the Post-Professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy, students are prepared for an intensive career in the field of occupational therapy. This university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Arkansas

EASY E-LEARNING PH.D. DEGREE PROGRAM

The University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas has two easy online doctorate programs, namely, Doctor of Education in Adult and Lifelong Leadership and Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. The Adult and Lifelong Leadership online doctorate can be completed in 30 months, while the Educational Leadership doctorate can be completed in 36. The university has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

California Intercontinental University

EASIEST DISTANCE LEARNING FORMAT DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAM

Based in Diamond Bar, California, California Intercontinental University offers an easy and accelerated online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree program. It provides numerous opportunities for online Ph.D. scholars to major in a specific area that is most appropriate for their research and career objectives. Some specializations include Entrepreneurship and Business Management, Global Business and Leadership, Healthcare Management and Leadership, and Information Systems and Enterprise Resource Management.

The online DBA program features state-of-the-art online resources for convenient learning. It is ideal for veterans, working professionals, Department of Defense employees, as well as military service members and their families. The degree program can be completed in 24 months. California Intercontinental University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Bowling Green State University

ONLINE EASY DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAM

The Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio features a convenient online Ph.D. in Technology Management degree program. This doctorate program is designed for working adults who already have a competitive edge in technology management. Students can easily choose from five areas, namely Construction Management, Digital Communications, Human Resource Development and Training, Manufacturing Systems, and Quality Systems for their Ph.D. research focus. Degree completion takes two and a half years. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

EASY E-LEARNING DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAM

The Indiana University of Pennsylvania, which received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, features an online Ph.D. in Safety Sciences degree program. The program features six-week-long summer workshops in the university’s laboratories. The university takes pride in its strong online dissertation support and mentorship program. The 24-credit hour coursework can be completed in three years.

Grand Canyon University

EASIEST PH.D. DEGREE PROGRAM ONLINE

Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona features accelerated online doctorate programs such as Ph.D. in General Psychology degree program that covers numerous topics such as social cognition, evaluation, and the establishment and assessment of learning outcomes. Learning is also easier because the 60-credit coursework is delivered in eight-week terms. Degree completion is 39 months. The university has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

Concordia University- Chicago

EASY TO EARN E-LEARNING PH.D. PROGRAM

Located in River Forest, Illinois, Concordia University- Chicago offers 14 easy online doctorate programs including Ph.D. in Gerontology, Ph.D. in Sports Leadership, and a Doctorate in Business Administration with emphasis on Innovation in Healthcare and Leadership and Innovation. Online courses are flexible and are delivered in eight-week terms for speedy degree completion in three to four years. Students can readily coordinate with their online mentors for dissertation consultations towards the end of their third year. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Maryland University College

EASIEST ONLINE DISTANCE LEARNING FORMAT DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAM

The University of Maryland University College in Adelphi, Maryland offers an easy online doctorate program such as the Ph.D. in Community College Policy and Administration featuring 24/7 flexibility, online dissertation support, and short on-campus visits. The 48-credit hour Ph.D. in Community College Policy and Administration degree can be easily earned in three to four years with a cohort system, short residencies, top-notch scholarships, and intensive dissertation support.  The university has received accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Psychology Graduate Programs Easy To Get Into

What Are The Types of Online Doctorate Programs

The term “doctorate” can cover a wide array of applications and can be confusing. Choosing the correct type of degree for your field of business is very important and should reflect your career goals. The types of doctorate degrees that can be completed online include the following:

• Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) – immerses students in coursework, practical experience, and research in education,
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) – focuses on research theories and design, together with specific academic disciplines like Engineering, Biology, Psychology, Mathematics, History, and Sociology,
• Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) – focuses on the research of theological concepts and principles like denominational history, hermeneutics, theological practices, mission studies, liturgy, and ethical values,
• Medical Doctorate (M.D.) – after earning the degree, students pursue careers in medicine,
• Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.) – focuses on conceptual research with business and management concentrations,
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) – involves practical knowledge in the field.

Don’t hesitate to research carefully what your career goal requires or the type of degree that is preferred to take advantage of its full benefits. Before signing on to an easy online doctoral program, please be sure it will meet your career expectations.

How Much Does An Easy Online Doctorate Degree Cost

Cost is every student’s primary consideration in earning an online doctoral degree. Doctorate degrees are generally more expensive than master’s degree programs because they require more credit hours. The tuition per credit hour ranges typically from $500 to $1500 depending on the doctorate degree program.

Through an easy online doctoral program, costs may be kept to a minimum due to the possibility of accelerated classwork. However, easy does not always indicate reduced costs, so check out tuition costs and program length before beginning your journey.

What Careers Require A Doctoral Degree

When it comes to career advancement, an online doctoral degree is a feather in your cap. Most careers that require a Ph.D. or present more significant opportunities for Ph.D. holders are in the health industry. However, doctorates are also required in higher education, scientific research, and legal sectors. Some of the most common professions that make doctorate degrees are professors of higher education, senior research scientists, engineers, psychiatrists, hospital pharmacy directors, and veterinarians.

Is Accreditation Important When Considering An Easy Online Doctorate Degree Program

Proper accreditation is essential in the world of education. It indicates to employers that you have received quality education from one of the finest institutions. Stringent rules and precise regulations are in place when a school has requested accreditation, all designed to provide each student with an easy online Ph.D. degree they can be proud of, along with, the knowledge and training needed to be successful in their career.

Online schools that have received proper accreditation allows students the opportunity to transfer credits from other accredited organizations. In addition, you may very well qualify for financial aid, as well as other advantages that non-accredited establishments do not allow.  So, why not learn from the best?  Locating an “easy” online doctoral degree program does not mean that you cannot find a quality program… but without a doubt, do extensive research first to find a plan that meets your needs! It’s advisable to stay away from any educational establishment that is not properly regionally accredited.