How to Earn a Doctorate Degree Online

If you have a master's degree, you might consider getting a doctorate degree. You may feel you do not have the time to devote to the degree, however, due to obligations at home, work and in the community. A popular solution to this problem is to get an online doctorate degree. Although generally more expensive and held in lower esteem than their mortar and bricks counterparts, online doctorate degrees provide a much-needed niche market for busy professionals.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Investigate online schools that offer doctorate degrees. Some of the most popular and well known include the University of Phoenix, Walden University and Argosy University. Make sure the school you wish to attend is accredited and that the doctorate you eventually receive is acceptable at your company for purposes of raises, promotions or advancements.

2. Decide on the program of study you would like to undertake. Although you will find online doctorate degrees in a variety of fields, some of the most popular include Business, Education and Public Health. If you desire to get a doctorate degree in a very specialized field, you may have a hard time finding an online program of study.

3. Apply to the college(s) of your choice. Like traditional schools, most have application fees. Some may require admissions tests, a certain GPA at the master's level, a certain number of years of professional experience and personal recommendations. Upon acceptance, you may have to pay the first semester or year's tuition. Some schools offer financial aid; many do not. Financial aid usually comes in the form of loans or grants; rarely do online universities offer traditional scholarships or "full rides."

4. Begin your program of study. Depending on the college, you may have to complete a residency program during some or all summers in the state in which your college's home office is located. Some programs require a traditional dissertation; some allow candidates to complete a project or real-world work experience involving research and observation in lieu of a dissertation. Depending on the number of classes taken, an online student can generally complete his or her doctorate in 5 years or less.