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Top 20 Cheapest Online PhD Programs in 2024

If you’re looking to earn a Ph.D. without committing to full-time study, an online Ph.D. might be a fantastic option. Many students can juggle their thesis, work, and family commitments, but unfortunately, online doctorates tend to come with a hefty price tag.

That said, you don’t have to break the bank to pursue your qualification! We’ve compiled the 15 cheapest online Ph.D. programs in 2024.

Table of Contents

The 20 Cheapest Online Ph.D. Programs

Related : Cheapest Online Master’s Degrees

1. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Missouri State University
Annual tuition : $14,700
Cost per credit: No information available
In-person requirement: 100% online
Credits required to graduate: 29 credit hours

The Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Missouri State University is one of the cheapest online Ph.D. programs in nursing. It offers incredible flexibility, letting full-time and part-time students choose between attending classes in real time or watching replays on their own time. The program provides a clear overview of modern scientific methods and practices, entrepreneurship, finance management principles, and health policy for senior nursing professionals.

2. Doctor of Acupuncture (DAc)

pacific college of health acupuncture phd program screenshot

Pacific College of Health and Science
Annual tuition : $9,988
Cost per credit: $454
Credits required to graduate: See the model curriculum

This online program is designed for anyone with a Master’s in Acupuncture. It aims to give students a deeper understanding of Chinese medicine and general biomedicine, specifically acupuncture. It will also sharpen students’ knowledge of healthcare ethics, build leadership skills, and enhance their problem-solving capabilities. This is one of the cheapest online doctorate programs available today, especially considering the number of credit hours.

3. Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Agriculture Education/Higher Education Administration

Texas Tech University phd in agriculture

Texas Tech University
Annual tuition : $8,779 (based on full-time courseload of 18 credit hours, for all online learners)
Cost per credit: $488 per credit hour in-state online learners. According to Texas Tech University, students may pay around the same for out-of-state (although there may be some fees)
In-person requirement: Hybrid
Credits required to graduate: 72 credit hours minimum

This cheap online doctoral program in education is delivered entirely online. To be eligible, students need relevant professional experience. For Higher Education specialization, they’ll also require professional experience at a post-secondary institution. The Agriculture Education program will help students develop critical thinking in agricultural research, statistics, and communication.

4. Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies

a&t university phd philosophy leadership studies course

North Carolina A&T State University
Annual tuition: $4,194 for in-state students, $15,480 for out-of-state students
Cost per credit : $233 per credit hour for in-state students, $860 per credit hour for out-of-state students
Credits required to graduate: 60 credit hours minimum, 48 hours of coursework, 12 hours for dissertation

This interdisciplinary program is for master’s degree holders who want to research sociology and behavior in order to learn more about leadership qualities. The program requires 42 program credits and 12 dissertation credits. This online doctorate is relevant to various industries and disciplines. Upon successful completion, students will be qualified for a range of roles in consultancy, research, and education.

Related : The best one-year online Ph.D. programs

5. Ph.D. in Computer Science

doctor of computer science colorado tech screenshot

Colorado Technical University
Annual tuition: $13,393
Cost per credit: $598 per credit hour
In-person requirement: Courses are 100% online. On-campus residency is required during research.
Credits required to graduate: 100 credit hours are obtainable in as few as three years.

This 100-credit program in computer science provides a modern, relevant approach to computing. With deep knowledge in a specialized area of computer science, students are equipped to predict future trends in the field and make significant contributions to the sector. This program will help them become experts in computer design, security, and processes. As one of the most affordable online Ph.D. programs in computer science, classes are flexible, so students can arrange their studies around their schedule.

Considering that 100 credits are required to graduate, this Colorado Technical University program is one of the most inexpensive Ph.D. programs online.

6. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Indiana State University
Annual tuition : $8,103 for in-state students, $10,527 for out-of-state students
Cost per credit: $438 per credit hour in-state. Out-of-state students pay $861 per credit hour unless they’re eligible for online rates ($569). A $50 per graduate course fee is added to online learning courses .
In-person requirement: 100% online
Credits required to graduate: 37 credit hours, no dissertation required

Students require a Master’s in Nursing to be eligible for Indiana State University’s online DNP program. This program doesn’t involve writing a dissertation, and the entire course can be completed in 37 credit hours. It is designed to develop and sharpen knowledge of care delivery, ethics, leadership, and decision-making while developing critical thinking skills to provide patient care.

To earn a DNP, Indiana State University offers one of the more affordable Ph.D. programs online.

7. Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction

New Mexico State University
Annual tuition: $17,551
Cost per credit: $444.40 per credit hour for all students .
In-person requirement: One week of in-person learning at the Las Cruces campus during the summer session (required for three summers)
Credits required to graduate: 66 credit hour minimum. Depending on your advisor and committee suggestions, more may be requested.

The C&I (Curriculum and Instruction) online doctorate at New Mexico State University is a generalist doctoral qualification. You can choose to specialize in multicultural teaching, early childhood education, education and technology, cultural studies, or critical pedagogies. The program also offers the option to choose independent courses to enhance your particular area of study.

The C&I doctoral program is one of the most affordable Ph.D. programs online (a flat rate of $444.4 per credit hour) whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student.

8. Doctor of Public Health / Global Health Leadership

Indiana University Online
Annual tuition: $10,350 for in-state students, $22,500 for out-of-state students
Cost per credit hour: $690 in-state, $1,500 out-of-state
In-person requirement: Three face-to-face meetings in both Year 1 and Year 2. Otherwise, everything else is online.
Credits required to graduate: 45 credits over an average of three years

This doctoral qualification specializing in global and public health uses a global curriculum from an international faculty. The program accepts two cohorts: a group with seven years of work experience (after completing a master’s degree) and one for students with at least a few years’ experience post master’s.

Indiana University’s program is designed for professionals in the public health sector – and it’s one of the cheapest Ph.D. programs of its kind.

9. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

University of Massachusetts – Amherst
Annual tuition : $14,850 (based on a full-time course load of 18 credit hours)
Cost per credit: $825 per credit hour
In-person requirement: If you already have an MSN and are a CPN (Advanced), you can join the online DNP completion program.
Credits required to graduate: 36 credit hours

The University of Massachusetts’ online doctorate program in Nursing Practice allows professionals to enhance their practical skills and knowledge of medical care. It also helps them to think critically about advanced scientific knowledge in healthcare, analyze clinical results, and perfect their leadership skills while taking an evidence-based approach through the latest healthcare and nursing research.

10. EdD in Higher Education Administration

University of Wyoming
Annual tuition : $6,460 for in-state students, $19,340 for out-of-state students
Cost per credit: $359 per credit hour for in-state students. $1,075 per credit hour for out-of-state students.
In-person requirement: Initial campus visit, then almost entirely online
Credits required to graduate: Roughly 75

University of Wyoming’s doctoral program aims to create education leaders that effectively manage higher education institutions. Students can complete the program with around 75 credits. This program can be completed almost entirely online (though it does require an initial campus visit). If you’re looking for the cheapest Ph.D. online, this is certainly one of them.

11. Doctor of Philosophy in Polymer & Fiber Engineering

Auburn University
Annual tuition : $17,082 ((based on a full-time course load of 18 credit hours)
Cost per credit: $949 per credit hour
In-person requirement: You may be required to visit the campus for oral exams and project/thesis/dissertation defense
Credits required to graduate: 30 credit hours minimum for a thesis option, 36 credit hours minimum for the non-thesis option

This is one of the few online doctoral specializations available for professionals in the field of chemical engineering. It is also one of the cheapest Ph.D. programs in the discipline, requiring 30 course credits and 10 research credits to complete. If you’re looking for a cheap online Ph.D. in engineering, this offering from Auburn University might suit you.

Specialization subjects include polymer chemistry and conduction in polymers, mechanics of materials made of textiles, fabrics used for producing paper, along with many others. Any student with a master’s degree from a recognized institution in a relevant field (e.g., biomedical engineering, polymer science) is eligible for the program.

12. Ph.D. of Philosophy in Nursing

Hampton University
Annual tuition: $9,382 – $10,425 (based on completing 54 to 60 credits over four years)
Cost per credit: $695
Credits required to graduate: 54 to 60 credits over an average of 4 years; 7 years maximum

To apply, students need a master’s degree in a relevant field. This online doctoral degree requires a minimum of 48 credits (beyond a master’s degree) for completion. This is a flexible program where students can pursue areas of interest beyond the core subjects.

13. Doctor of Education in Community Care & Counseling

Liberty University
Annual tuition: $13,566 on average
Cost per credit: $595 per credit for full-time students (6-15 credits per semester)
Credits required to graduate: 57 credit hours over 2.5 years (on average)

This 100% online and highly flexible program is offered by Liberty University, a higher education institution grounded in Christian values. The program specializes in diagnosis, treatment, and counseling, especially in family and marriage, as well as research and education methodology. Note : This EdD degree does not meet state counseling licensure requirements.

14. Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy

Annual tuition: $11,900 on average
Cost per credit: $595 per credit hour for full-time online (enrolled in 6 to 15 credits per semester)
Credits required to graduate: 60 credit hours over 3 years on average

This online doctoral program can be completed in 60 credit hours and aims to equip students for the world of public policy. It encourages new research to improve and transform the public policy sector through Christian doctrine.

15. Doctor of Business Administration

Columbia Southern University
Annual tuition : $8,845
Cost per credit: $435
Credits required to graduate: minimum of 61 credits (up to 9 can be transferred)

One of the most affordable online degree programs in Business Administration, this Columbia Southern Ph.D. allows students to develop advanced leadership and decision-making skills, focusing on both research and the application of theory. To earn their doctorate, students need to complete a dissertation and defend it before a committee (which can be done remotely). In addition to this project-based study, students must also complete coursework on topics such as corporate responsibility, financial and accounting management, and quantitative data analysis.

16. Juris Doctor

Abraham Lincoln University
Annual tuition : $11,375
Cost per credit: $325 per quarter unit
Credits required to graduate: 140 quarter units over four years

The Juris Doctor program offered by Abraham Lincoln University is one of the oldest online law schools in California. Fully online, students learn a range of advanced analytical, technical, and research skills to practice law or work in a range of positions in the legal sector. The program is registered with the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California.

17. Doctor of Education (EdD)

William Howard Taft University
Annual tuition: $6,480 (based on a full-time course load of 18 credit hours)
Cost per credit: $360
Credits required to graduate: 60 credits

This online Ph.D. in Education program equips students with advanced knowledge of organizational development, educational psychology, diversity in education, and law & ethics. Students can choose between three concentrations: Leadership & Administration, Educational Technology, and Charter School Administration.

18. Online Doctor of Education in Leadership & Innovation

Arizona State University
Tuition : $10,170 (for a full-time load of nine credit hours per semester)
Cost per credit: $565
Credits required to graduate: 90 credit hours

This affordable online doctorate is offered in a cohort model that is designed to provide students with a high degree of academic support. As part of this model, students are placed in leader scholar community groups to improve student experiences and promote better learning outcomes. Designed for practicing educators and leaders in the education sector, the program gives educators the tools to better support student success and drive positive change in classrooms – and across entire institutions.

Students may opt for one of three educational pathways:

Pre-K to Grade 12 Change Leadership
Higher Education Change Leadership
Systems, Professional, and Reimagined Change Leadership.

19. E dD in Leadership

American College of Education
Total program cost: $23,914
Cost per credit: $306 (total program cost $23,914)
Credits required to graduate: 64 credits over 36 months

This is one of the most affordable fully online doctoral programs in educational leadership. Students pursue original research in an area of their choice while using evidence-based decision-making to solve real-world problems. The program typically takes three years, but accelerated programs are available for qualifying students (e.g., EdS, ACE graduates).

20. Doctor of Nursing Practice (Educational Leadership)

Post University
Annual tuition: $13,860
Cost per credit: $770
Credits required to graduate: 42 credit hours over 28 months

This is one of only a handful of online DNP programs specializing in educational leadership. It equips nursing educators with vital skills across leadership, curriculum development, policy, finance, research, and strategic planning. The program is broken down into eight-week courses and offers six start dates per year, making it easier for busy professionals to fit their studies into their schedules.

What’s the Average Cost of Online Doctoral Degrees?

Most online doctoral degree programs cost between $10,000 and $20,000 yearly in tuition and fees. However, this can vary widely depending on the institution and field of study. The most affordable online doctorate degrees start at around $6,000 annually, with a total degree cost of around $12,000.

Related : The easiest Ph.D. to consider

Make Cheap Online Ph.D. Programs Even More Affordable

We’ve pulled together the cheapest online doctoral degree programs from respected institutions in various fields. However, even when looking at the most affordable online doctoral programs, tuition and other fees can add up. Luckily, many sources of financial support can help.

Many universities and colleges provide financial aid to students. There are also scholarships, loans, and grants available for deserving students. You can even ask your employer to cover all or part of your tuition and other study expenses.

Top Doctoral Degree Fields

By looking at the median annual wage, some of the highest-paying fields for Ph.D. graduates (as of 2021) include:

Psychiatrists : $226,880
Software Architects : $120,520
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers : $97,410
Medical Scientists : $95,310
Petroleum Geologists : $83,680

Related : The top online Ph.D. programs .

Where Are Ph.D. Holders Most Desired?

Currently, doctorate holders are most in demand in the fields of law, post-secondary education (especially in health specialties), and physical therapy. You’ll find countless affordable online doctorate programs, especially in some of the programs we listed above.

Mean earnings in the US in 2021 by level of educational attainment:

Less than 9th grade: $32,907
High school (9th to 12th Nongrad): $30,072
Graduate (including GED): $42,851
Some college, but no degree: $45,423
Associate degree: $52,127
Bachelor’s degree: $80,384
Master’s degree: $97,647
Professional degree: $156,305
Doctorate degree: $140,469

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest online doctorate.

In the age where online learning is becoming the norm, it comes as no surprise that more and more institutions are offering doctoral degrees online. Online education, by its nature, tends to be cheaper than in-person learning. To give you a better idea, some of the cheapest online doctoral programs are:

North Carolina A&T State University’s Doctor of Philosophy program costs just $233 per credit, or $4,194 per year in annual tuition for in-state residents. However, tuition is significantly higher for residents of other states.
Columbia Southern University offers doctorate programs at $435 per credit hour (or $391.50 for CSU Learning Partner members). The university tries to include textbooks and eBooks in the total cost to lower your costs even more. Of course, this may not always be valid for those working toward doctorates.

It’s worth mentioning that many doctorates (even those online) offer financial aid opportunities to help you pay part or all of your tuition costs. It may be worth looking into programs where these opportunities exist.

Do Online Ph.D. Programs Provide Financial Aid?

If you want to earn your doctorate online, you can still apply for FAFSA if the school or program accepts it. Consider online schools and programs that offer financial aid.

Most universities will offer scholarships and grants to qualifying students, whether they are attending in-person or online classes. For example, students at Missouri State University’s Doctor of Nursing program can apply for MSU’s annual scholarship.

Note: Although you can apply for various scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to get them.

Are Online Ph.D. Programs Legitimate?

Yes, there are a large number of legitimate online Ph.D. programs offered by reputable institutions. As with any higher-education program, it’s essential to check that the school is accredited before enrolling, as this is directly related to the value of any qualification. It’s also important to consider the institution’s reputation, which may influence potential future employers.

Can I Get a Ph.D. for Free?

Several fully-funded Ph.D. programs offer doctorates with no out-of-pocket costs. These programs typically cover tuition and other expenses for the entire duration of the program through scholarships, grants, work-study, or a combination of these. Some schools even offer a stipend for living expenses.

However, many of these programs involve on-campus attendance. The options for fully-funded online doctoral programs are much more limited.

Key Takeaways

An online doctoral qualification not only helps you to advance your career but also encourages your personal development via critical thinking, leadership, and analytical skills. You’ll find that pursuing one of the cheapest online Ph.D. programs in 2022 will provide countless benefits!

Want to get a Ph.D. but aren’t sure if you qualify? Discover whether you need a master’s to get a Ph.D. !

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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