phd in english distance education

Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

We rank the best online PhD degree programs in English.

Key Takeaways

• Students seeking a PhD in English can choose from a small selection of online English doctoral programs.
• Online English PhD graduates typically work in areas like post-secondary education, language research, publishing.
• Online English PhD programs come in concentrations like American literature, technology and media studies, literary theory, and more.

Featured Programs

The online English PhD program is ideal for working professionals and graduate students with a deep interest in English literature, comparative literature, creative writing, English language learning education, literacy education, and more. However, only a select number of universities offer a full selection of English PhD programs online.

The online English doctoral degree is considered a terminal degree, which means it is the highest degree that you can earn in your field. This means that online doctoral programs for PhD students in English can lead to opportunities for teaching English at the post-secondary level, participating in advanced humanities research, or providing public consultation on critical literacy and learning issues.

Online PhD in English candidates are typically already working at a high level in their field. This means that students seeking their doctorate must balance existing work and personal responsibilities with a challenging course of education. For many graduate students, online courses and fully online programs provide a way to achieve this balance.

For a look at how these online doctor of English programs stack up against traditional on campus programs, check out our look at the The Best Research Universities for English Degrees.

Or find out more with a look at our College Rankings Guide .

Otherwise, read on and learn more about how you can earn an online PhD in English.

The best online PhD in English programs will have proper accreditation. Be sure that you are pursuing your PhD in English through a fully accredited university and program:

• Institutional Accreditation : Accreditation is vital for online doctoral programs. It signifies that the online PhD programs offered by the online school are in compliance with the standards of a Department of Education-approved accrediting body.

A school must also be accredited in order to offer federal financial aid to its online doctorate candidates. When looking for an online doctoral program, seek out options with accreditation from a colleges and schools commission in your region. This stamp of approval is critical for ensuring the quality and credibility of your online program.

• Programmatic Accreditation : In addition to institutional accreditation, be sure that you prioritize online doctorate degree programs with programmatic accreditation. While there is no specifically required programmatic accreditation for the general field of English, those who intend to work in post-secondary educational institutions may be required to complete a doctoral program with accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Make sure that your online English PhD program offers the proper programmatic accreditation requirements for your career goals.
• Carnegie Classification : The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, or as it is more commonly known, the Carnegie Classification, is a framework for categorizing all accredited, degree-granting institutions in the United States. Originally formulated in 1970 by The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, and administered through the University of Indiana’s Center for Postsecondary Research since 2014, the Carnegie Classification is “the leading framework for recognizing and describing institutional diversity in U.S. higher education.”

Under this classification, top research universities for doctoral degrees and PhD candidates are identified as either R2: Doctoral Universities for “high research activity” or R1: Doctoral Universities for “very high research activity.” Look for these classifications when considering options for your online Phd programs.

Key Point: Be sure that you only consider an online English PhD program with proper accreditation.

Doctoral Program Admission Requirements

Schools that offer online English PhD programs have different admission requirements. However, most online doctoral programs will carry the same basic threshold for admission:

• A completed online application
• Official transcripts
• A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
• GRE scores, MAT scores, or GMAT scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal interviews
• Personal statement or writing sample
• Plan of study

Key Point: In most cases, you will be eligible to enter a doctoral degree online after earning only a bachelor’s degree. However, some specialized online English Degree programs may require you to have earned a master’s degree as well.

Curriculum and Courses For English Graduate Students

As with other advanced degree and graduate programs, research is the central component of your online PhD in English program. This is true for fully online doctorate degrees as well as hybrid degrees combining online education with traditional on-campus courses. Regardless of whether you complete a traditional, hybrid or online doctoral program, the typical time to completion is five to seven years.

The typical components of your online English PhD program may include:

Foundational Courses

Your English PhD will typically begin with foundational courses in your area of concentration. Concentrations may include:

• English literature
• British literature
• Creative writing
• Critical literacy training
• Literary and cultural studies

Some of your courses will focus on research methods and experimental design. You may be able to complete many of these requirements through online classes. Your English graduate program may also include a foreign language requirement.

Examinations for PhD Candidacy

Many online doctoral students are required to complete certain examinations to enter into online PhD candidacy. This will typically occur after you’ve completed one to two years of foundational courses.

Dissertation

In most cases, the central component of your online PhD program will be the completion of your dissertation. After gaining status as an online PhD candidate, you will typically work closely with a professorial advisor or mentor to develop an original scholarly research question.

This research question will form the basis of your dissertation—an ongoing project designed to address this research question through applied research. While you will work closely with your advisor or mentor, much of your dissertation will be rooted in independent research. This is especially true for students pursuing an online PhD.

Oral Defense

Upon completion of the written portion of your dissertation—which will typically present the findings from your original research project—you will be expected to defend your findings. This “oral defense” will typically be conducted by a commission of professors and experts in your field. PhD candidates in some online degree programs may be able to conduct this defense via teleconferencing.

Teaching Requirements

Some online Ph.D programs will also include a teaching component, which will require you to work as an adjunct professor or teaching assistant in an undergraduate or graduate school. It may be possible for students in the online doctoral degree program to also serve teaching requirements through distance learning.

Key Point: Completion and defense of your dissertation will be a central part of completing your online doctoral degree program in English.

Careers for English Online Doctoral Students

The online PhD in English is a terminal degree program. This means that PhD students who complete this online program will qualify for top positions and opportunities in their field.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that you may be able to qualify for work as an English teacher with a master’s degree in English. However, the highest paying careers in English are generally held by those working in post-secondary education. The BLS notes that the highest paid 10% of professionals in the English field earned more than $132,000 in 2021.

Earning an online PhD in English can lead to some of these top-paying roles in the field, including:

• Critical Literacy Policy Development
• Education Policy Consultation
• Post-Secondary Literature Education
• Education Department Chairmanship

Key Point: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, English professionals with a doctorate will earn more than graduates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

What’s the difference between online doctoral programs and online PhD programs?

Technically, a PhD is a type of doctorate degree. This means that all online PhD candidates are doctoral students. By contrast, not all doctoral students are PhD candidates.

The primary distinction is that doctoral students are primarily focused on putting existing theories into practice. Depending on your chosen field, your online doctoral degree may require participation in an educational leadership program, engagement in clinical practice, work as a resident in a nursing program, and much more.

By contrast, online PhD students are focused on creating new knowledge in their area of study. This usually means that online PhD candidates are focused on introducing new theories, creating research projects around these theories, and presenting new findings that demonstrate a mastery of existing knowledge and the insight to introduce new ideas into the field.

Today, more working professionals than ever before are pursuing both online doctoral degrees and online Phd programs.

The Best Online English Doctorates (PhDs)

The online PhD in English programs identified here are ranked based on influence, with weighting for graduation rate and full-time online enrollment.

Texas A&M University

• #2 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
• #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #13 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #24 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #1 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
• #2 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
• #3 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
• #5 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #8 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
• #9 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
• #11 Best RN to BSN Online
• #13 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #20 Best Online Master's in Management

Tuition + fees

Student body

Median SAT/ACT

Career Outlook for English degree at Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Engineering
• Earth Sciences
• Computer Science
• Criminal Justice
• Mathematics

Most Influential Alumni

• C. Wright Mills
• Frank Malina
• Gilbert Shelton
• Henry Cisneros
• Richard Steadman
• Kenneth Womack
• Elaine Ingham
• Forrest Mims
• Adrian Smith
• H. W. Brands
• Lihong V. Wang

What do we love about Texas A&M University?

Texas A&M University was founded in 1876 as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas. In 1948, Texas A&M began to expand into additional campuses throughout the state, making the College Station, Texas campus the flagship school in the Texas A&M University system.

With more than 73,000 students pursuing degrees at the undergraduate and post-graduate levels, Texas A&M University is in fact the largest school in the United States by enrollment. The public research university is also the only school in Texas that is designated as a land-, sea-, and space-grant university.

Texas A&M makes a wide range of excellent graduate level degrees available to students both through traditional delivery and fully online classes. For instance, students can complete the PhD in English either online or at the Texas A&M-Commerce campus.

Are planning to conduct advanced graduate research. Texas A&M is classified among R1: Doctoral Universities for its very high level of research activity.

Are looking for a more intimate college experience. Texas A&M is literally the largest school you could possibly attend.

University of Alabama at Birmingham

• #4 Best Grad Schools in Alabama 2024
• #4 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Alabama
• #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Alabama
• #3 Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2024
• #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Alabama 2024
• #5 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
• #7 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
• #7 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
• #7 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
• #8 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #8 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
• #8 Best Online MBA in Marketing Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #9 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #9 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #9 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
• #12 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
• #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
• #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
• #15 Best Online MBAs in Finance
• #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
• #18 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #19 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
• #4 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs

Career Outlook for English degree at University of Alabama at Birmingham

University of Alabama at Birmingham’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Anthropology
• Rebecca Bace
• Ray L. Watts
• Eli Capilouto
• Lawrence J. DeLucas
• Hadiyah-Nicole Green
• Graeme McDowell
• David B. Allison
• Clancy Blair
• Bruce R. Korf
• Selwyn M. Vickers
• Ricardo Azziz
• Jason Aaron

What do we love about University of Alabama-Birmingham?

University of Alabama-Birmingham was formed in 1936 as a small regional “academic extension center.” Over the next three decades, the school grew into a public research university boasting 140 undergraduate and graduate programs across 12 academic departments.

From its humble regional beginning, the University of Alabama-Birmingham today serves more than 22,000 students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. In fact, the university is also the single largest employer in the state, with more than 75,000 people working as faculty, staff, and in various jobs across the university health system.

UAB is identified among R1: Doctoral Universities for its very high level of research. Students pursuing their PhD have a number of options both online and on campus. In particular, UAB offers a variety of excellent online education PhDs, which can provide an excellent degree pathway for those with an interest in post-secondary English and literature education, or those with an interest in literacy research and policy development. Relevant concentrations include the online PhD in Early Childhood Education and the online PhD in Educational Studies in Diverse Populations .

Want balance between big city life and a small town feel. Students describe the campus and surrounding Birmingham as offering a safe community in a vibrant urban setting.

Are seeking a broad selection of on-campus activities. Some students describe options as limited in this area.

Texas Tech University

• #7 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
• #1 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
• #1 Best Online Master's in English
• #2 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Best Online Certificate in Liberal Arts and Humanities Ranked for Students
• #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
• #2 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
• #4 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs
• #4 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
• #5 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2024
• #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #6 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
• #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #7 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs
• #8 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #8 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs
• #8 The Most Affordable Online Clinical Nutrition Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #9 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
• #10 Best Online Master’s in Communications
• #11 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
• #12 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
• #12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
• #14 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #14 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #14 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
• #15 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #15 Best Online Master’s in Education
• #16 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #20 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #20 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
• #23 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
• #23 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)

Career Outlook for English degree at Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Political Science
• John Hinckley Jr.
• Arati Prabhakar
• James T. Richardson
• Mica Endsley
• Carolyn Eisele
• Paul E. Gray
• Guy McPherson
• John Denver
• Manuel H. Johnson
• M. David Rudd

What do we love about Texas Tech University?

Texas Tech University began life as the Texas Technical College with its founding 1923. Based in Lubbock, Texas Tech is considered the primary institution among the five schools making up the Texas Tech University System.

Taking its present name in 1969, Texas Tech University would become the sixth-largest institution in the state of Texas. Today, there are more than 40,000 students earning degrees at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels at the public research university

Texas Tech is particularly noteworthy as a destination for prospective PhDs, including those with an interest in its online PhD in English. The school has a number of different PhD in English programs , including creative writing, literature, linguistics, and rhetoric. Texas Tech is classified among R1: Doctoral Universities, so noted for their very high research activity.

Like a college with strong school spirit. Students repeatedly note that the school spirit is a major feature of campus life, which can make Texas Tech feel like one big community.

Are looking for a small campus. Like a lot of other things in Texas, Texas Tech is a sprawling campus. Students note that the sheer distance of walking between classes can sometimes be exhausting.

Old Dominion University

• #8 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
• #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
• #2 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
• #3 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Accounting Programs
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration
• #3 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
• #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
• #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Electrical and Computer Engineering Degree Programs for 2024
• #6 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science
• #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
• #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
• #7 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
• #7 Best Online Master's in English
• #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
• #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #9 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs
• #9 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
• #10 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #10 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
• #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
• #10 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
• #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
• #13 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
• #18 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
• #19 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• #23 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
• #24 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
• #25 Best Online Master's in Special Education
• #4 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
• #13 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024

Career Outlook for English degree at Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Justin Verlander
• Nancy Lieberman
• Serkan Golge
• Ticha Penicheiro
• Linda B. Hayden
• Richard C. McCarty
• Kent Bazemore
• Bonita V. Saunders
• Sarah McCoy
• Jack T. Kirby
• Philip C. Kendall

What do we love about Old Dominion University?

Old Dominion University was formed in 1930 as the Norfolk Division of the College of William & Mary. Based in Norfolk, Virginia, Old Dominion university offers more than 150 graduate and undergraduate degree options.

Today, Old Dominion serves more than 24,000 students at the graduate and undergraduate levels, and is noted as an institution where a high level of scientific and technological innovation takes place.

Old Dominion is identified among R1: Doctoral Universities for its very high level of research. Students pursuing their PhD have a number of options both online and on campus.

ODU has an online English doctoral program that results in a PhD in English. The program is 48 credit hours and includes two summer visits to campus.

Enjoy diversity. Students at ODU represent all 50 states as well as more than 80 nations around the world.

Do not prefer a college in an urban area. ODU’s 251 acre campus is less than 5 miles from downtown Norfolk.

Murray State University

• #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Kentucky
• #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Kentucky 2024
• #3 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs
• #4 Best Online MBA in Healthcare Management Ranked for Students in 2024
• #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Kentucky
• #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Kentucky 2024
• #6 Best Online Colleges in Kentucky 2024
• #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
• #11 Best Online Master's in English
• #12 Best Online Master's in Economics
• #12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Programs
• #13 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
• #14 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
• #14 Best Online Associate in General Studies
• #18 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
• #18 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
• #23 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration

Career Outlook for English degree at Murray State University

Murray State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Jeff Easley
• David L. Armstrong
• Popeye Jones
• Chris Thile
• Terry Yates
• W. Earl Brown
• Kirk Rueter
• Bill Cunningham

What do we love about Murray State University?

Murray State University was formed in 1922 as the Murray State Normal School. Though Murray State’s flagship campus is based in Calloway, Kentucky, the public university operates an additional four campuses throughout the state.

Murray State gradually evolved throughout its history, from a modest teachers college operating out of a local middle school into a degree-granting institution and, by 1966, a state-recognized university. Today, Murray serves more than 9,000 students at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

Murray State offers several only doctoral programs, and is recognized for its NCATE accreditation, which distinguishes its advanced degree programs in the field of education.

The school has an online Doctor of Arts in English Pedagogy degree program.

Are pursuing careers in teaching, nursing, and business. Murray State is recognized for its excellence in each of these areas.

Have financial limitations. Students describe the cost of attendance and the cost of living as comparatively high at Murray State.

Other Options for Aspiring English PhDs

Students considering an online doctoral in English should also check out the best on-campus options to compare features like cost, curriculum, acceptance rate, and more.

New York University

• #13 Best Universities in the World 2024
• #23 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #2 Best Colleges in New York 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities in New York 2024
• #2 Best Grad Schools in New York 2024
• #2 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024
• #3 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #15 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #18 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #18 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #23 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #23 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #1 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2024
• #1 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #2 Best Online Master's in Management
• #2 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #3 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #3 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #3 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
• #5 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
• #10 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

New York University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Social Work
• Communications
• Erich Fromm
• Robert Mueller
• Martha Nussbaum
• John Archibald Wheeler
• Glenn Greenwald
• Howard Zinn
• Eric Kandel
• Lewis Mumford
• Alvin Toffler
• Louis Nirenberg

University of California, Berkeley

• #2 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #2 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #2 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #2 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
• #2 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #5 Best Universities in the World 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in California 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges California 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024
• #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities in California 2024
• #2 Best Grad Schools California 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
• #3 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #7 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #1 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #1 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
• #2 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
• #3 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #4 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
• #2 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
• #3 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024

Career Outlook for English degree at University of California, Berkeley

University of California, Berkeley’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Daniel Kahneman
• John Kenneth Galbraith
• Timothy Leary
• Shing-Tung Yau
• Ken Thompson
• Niklaus Wirth
• Douglas Engelbart
• Theodosius Dobzhansky
• Betty Friedan
• George Dantzig
• Octavio Paz
• Gary Snyder

University of Michigan

• #4 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
• #9 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #9 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
• #11 Best Universities in the World 2024
• #22 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #1 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
• #1 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2024
• #1 Best Colleges in Michigan 2024
• #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
• #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2024
• #1 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024
• #2 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
• #4 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
• #5 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
• #6 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
• #8 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
• #9 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
• #10 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
• #11 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
• #12 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
• #13 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
• #14 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
• #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Michigan
• #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Michigan 2024
• #1 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
• #1 Best Online Master’s in Health Science
• #1 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #1 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
• #2 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
• #2 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #2 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
• #2 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
• #3 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #4 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
• #6 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
• #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
• #7 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024

Career Outlook for English degree at University of Michigan

University of Michigan’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Claude Shannon
• Arthur Miller
• Alvin Plantinga
• Edgar F. Codd
• Hans-Hermann Hoppe
• Stephen Smale
• Urie Bronfenbrenner
• John Henry Holland
• Amos Tversky
• Marshall Sahlins

University of California, Los Angeles

• #7 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges
• #13 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
• #14 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
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Career Outlook for English degree at University of California, Los Angeles

University of California, Los Angeles’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

• Hilary Putnam
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University of Iowa

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Career Outlook for English degree at University of Iowa

University of Iowa’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

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• Oswald Veblen
• Jayaprakash Narayan
• Leon Festinger
• Henry Jenkins
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Check out our complete Online Program Rankings .

Online PhD in English

Explore and compare a list of accredited schools to enroll in your next program.

Timelines, Programs and Resources for English Students

The time commitment for earning and online PhD in English is equal to that of earning the same degree on campus. Students will hone their research skills, take on self-motivated projects, collaborate with elite academics and ultimately present a culmination of their research as a contribution to the area of English they chose to study. After graduation, students can pursue careers in academia, as well as fields like business, law or advertising. English PhD graduates are typically excellent communicators, and this guide explores where and how to earn these doctoral credentials through distance learning.

Timeline: Earning an Online PhD in English

Earning an English doctoral degree through an online program tests a student’s ability to study and research intensively on their own time. It requires a great deal of commitment, but even distance learning programs include students in academic discussions with their thesis advisors and other faculty members in the English department. The following timeline provides a helpful guide for online students to navigate through their program with, from applications through graduation.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Because an English PhD is such a high-level degree, applicants must be prepared to provide examples of their best work and explain why they would do well in a certain program. They must show their commitment to English and literature in order to be accepted.

• COMPLETED MASTER’S DEGREE AND TRANSCRIPTS This prior graduate degree should be in English or a closely related field, and applicants should have earned it through an accredited institution. Programs will ask for official transcripts to be sent from all higher learning institutions that an applicant attended.
• GRE SCORES There may be a minimum scoring requirement in the reading and verbal areas of the GRE for doctoral level English applicants, but all programs will want to see general scores from this exam taken within the last five years.
• PERSONAL STATEMENT This personal essay is where an applicant outlines their professional, academic and research goals and how the specific online PhD program in English will help them achieve these goals. Applicants should also note what degree emphasis they are interested in pursuing within English, depending on what the school offers.
• WRITING SAMPLE English PhD applicants must include a writing sample with their application, usually around 20 double-spaced pages, that is on a topic related to their specialization or English expertise.
• RECOMMENDATION LETTERS Online PhD programs will ask for letters of recommendation from sources that are able to comment on an applicant’s readiness to attend a graduate program in English.
• RESUME English PhD programs will take academic qualifications and professional experience into account. Some consider this an integral part of application requirements for doctoral-level English students.
• DEMONSTRATION OF LEARNING COMMITMENT Because online English PhDs require self-motivated, research-intensive study, applicants may be asked to demonstrate their ability to make time, use relevant technologies and facilities, and commit fully to distance learning. Previous experience with online education programs is helpful.

YEAR 1 MILESTONES

The first year of an online English doctoral program is the last chance a student has to play the academic field. After this year, or sometimes even before applying to the program, English PhD students must choose an area of English to specialize in and study intensively. This is where they will devote all of their attention to throughout their PhD program.

• CHOOSE A CONCENTRATION Any undecided students need to choose a focus within English in the first year of an online PhD program in order to direct their future research and prepare for their final thesis. Concentrations may be in a specific time period of literature, or more general concentrations like technology and media studies.
• REFINE RESEARCH PRACTICES Throughout the English PhD program, students will design and conduct empirical research with literature, including various scholarly approaches to writing such as ethnography and feminist research.
• INVESTIGATE FACULTY MEMBER ADVISORS Because professors are such a major component of a PhD program in English, students should begin looking for faculty advisors early. This usually involves finding a professor who specializes in the student’s chosen area of specialty.

YEAR 2 MILESTONES

Second-year English doctoral students must complete all specialized courses in their area of specialty. Some may choose to take more electives, which may mean more time in school. This is also the year English PhD students will begin to prepare for their final theses and dissertations.

• CONCENTRATION COURSES AND ELECTIVES Because English PhD areas of specialization vary, students are usually required to complete courses within their specialization during this year. These can be in subject areas such as historical literature, or theories around rhetoric and writing. There will also be other required courses and a certain number of electives second-year English PhD students must take in addition to these specialty studies.
• CRITICAL RESEARCH AND APPLICATIONS Online PhD programs teach English students to think and reason outside the box, using uncharted paths. They will have to investigate topics with a critical eye, exploring previous research but not relying on others’ opinions for their own findings.
• PREPARE FOR A RESEARCH PROJECT Students should begin cultivating ideas and relevant sources of research material for their final English PhD thesis as soon as they have decided on concentrations. This final, culminating project will exemplify their academic achievement and is needed to become experts in their field.

YEAR 3 MILESTONES

The final year of an English PhD program is completely devoted to a student’s final thesis and dissertation. Their entire academic career has honed their research skills, critical thinking, writing and speaking abilities to reach this pinnacle of academic achievement.

• DISSERTATION HOURS Different online PhD programs in English may have specific dissertation courses that prepare students to develop, initially research, refine, and organize a topic for their thesis and defense. Faculty members oversee research and bibliography construction. All core, field, specialized and elective coursework needs to be completed before undertaking preparations for a dissertation.
• DOCTORAL CANDIDACY EXAMS After completing class and research requirements, some online English PhD programs require students to pass an exam designed specifically for student’s chosen field and the projects they hope to pursue. If a student does not pass, they will not be allowed to submit their research proposal or work on their dissertation. These students will need to re-evaluate and re-test.
• APPLY FOR A RESEARCH PROJECT Before starting research preparing for the defense on their English PhD thesis, students must find a faculty advisor and submit a research proposal. This is to ensure that they are pursuing interesting, relevant, original research in the field, that they have planned their research and thesis well and that they are completely prepared for rigorous academic work.
• INDEPENDENT, RELEVANT RESEARCH The final stage of a student’s English doctoral program focuses completely on research into the specialization that they have chosen to study. English PhD students must apply their researching, analysis and writing skills, under the supervision of a faculty advisor, to complete their thesis.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Graduating from a PhD program in English is a testament to a student’s research ability and their commitment to the subject. They have defended their skills before a panel of successful academics. This is the most important requirement for a PhD, but there are a few other key requirements for an online degree that English PhD students must also meet.

• COMPLETED COURSEWORK Because English doctoral degree studies build upon a student’s experience with research in their chosen field, they must complete each online course to the professor’s satisfaction before proceeding in the program. Most PhD programs have minimum GPA requirements that students must meet to remain in the program.
• TESTS AND TRAININGS While individual English professors may administer exams to their PhD students, the online university itself may have test requirements that accepted students must fulfill, usually to establish a common base knowledge of good research practices.
• ON-CAMPUS REQUIREMENTS Some programs may require online PhD student to attend a specified amount of English classes on-campus. These residential credit hours must be fulfilled before a student can graduate.
• THESIS AND DEFENSE All English PhD programs require students to complete an original thesis or dissertation under the supervision of an advisor. Defending the value and work of this thesis to a panel of fellow English academics is also major part of earning a doctorate.

Core Principles and Skills Learned in Online English PhD Programs

Phd in english, literature and culture, rhetoric and communication, technology resources, master’s in english, top online phd in education programs.

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Spotlight: Online PhD Programs in English

The best thing about online programs is that students have the opportunity to enroll in the best schools, no matter where they are located geographically. The following list spotlights the best accredited English PhD programs that offer online degrees in the nation, base on a variety of factors important to students. This information can provide a base for students to begin digging deeper into each program to find the best overall fit.

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Harvard offers 22 total fine arts and design programs at the undergraduate and graduate level. Programs fall under the Department of Art, Film, and Visual Studies (AFVS); the Office for the Arts ; or the Graduate School of Design . Through Harvard, students can earn a professional art degree without compromising on a liberal arts education.

Students wishing to major in studio arts declare a concentration in AFVS during their sophomore year. By the end of junior year, AFVS majors establish a media focus to develop a professional-level portfolio. Students choose to complete either a two-semester senior thesis or a project representing their third year body of work.

The graduate school offers professional and post-professional master's programs in design, architecture, and urban planning. Admission to the design master's program requires two years of professional experience. However, undergraduates may apply to the architecture and urban planning programs with a portfolio demonstrating their aptitude for three-dimensional design.

The University of Pennsylvania's Weitzman School of Design offers 28 programs in fine arts and design focused on the interdisciplinary study of art as a response to societal challenges. UPenn awards bachelor's-level art degrees in fine arts or design.

The fine arts program focuses on artmaking technique and requires six studio courses with options such as printmaking, sculpture, and animation. The design program explores the integration of design with science and the humanities. Studio courses under this major offer instruction in the application of contemporary design theory and prototyping and fabrication.

Both undergraduate degrees include a two-semester capstone senior seminar in the final year. The seminar culminates in a public showcase of the student's portfolio. Prospective students applying directly to the art program may submit a supplemental portfolio. Current students enter the program without a separate application by meeting with an advisor to declare a major.

The Penny W. Stamps School of Art and Design (Stamps) at the University of Michigan hosts 14 undergraduate and graduate level programs with options tailored toward either a studio or an academic focus. Undergraduates choose from four art degree options: BA or BFA in art and design, BFA in interarts performance, and dual-degree options.

In all programs, Stamps requires studio courses in drawing, design, and inquiry methods. Students must pass a sophomore review in which they present a portfolio of college work to a faculty committee. Students must also complete one course outside the United States in an approved international program unless they declare a minor.

All Stamps applicants need to complete the Common Application or Coalition Application for U-M. Recommendations must include letters from both an academic and an art instructor. Portfolios should include 12-15 pieces representing both conceptual work and direct observation drawings.

A private research university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University offers 17 programs in art and design through The College of Fine Arts . This includes a BFA and a BXA intercollege degree programs.

The BFA program contains four media-based concentrations. Students can choose a specific concentration or create an individualized hybrid curriculum.The first year curriculum includes courses from all four concentrations. After sophomore year, students gain more freedom to choose their major coursework. A year-long senior studio course serves as the program capstone. Each school year ends with an exhibition showcasing senior studio work.

When making a decision, admission officers consider an applicant's portfolio, transcripts, and test scores holistically. Portfolios must include 12-20 pieces with artist statements. Faculty recommend including work done outside of assignments to represent independent ability.

A private research university in Durham, North Carolina, Duke University features 11 art and design programs through the Trinity College of Art and Sciences. Undergraduate students can pursue one of three BA tracks: art history, visual arts, and visual and media studies. Art history specializations include architecture and museum studies. The program also offers a combined art history and visual arts major.

Visual arts majors choose courses from six subdisciplines for introductory and intermediate studios. The program culminates in a required theory course and a studio capstone. Visual and media studies majors must take two gateway courses within their first year. Students choose from a list of preapproved courses to serve as their capstone.

Art program applicants only need to complete the general Duke application, but students may submit a portfolio and statement as a supplement.

The private research university hosts two schools catering to visual arts. The Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development offers art degrees in studio art, visual arts administration, art therapy, and art education. Tisch School of the Arts provides undergraduate and graduate level tracks in art and design for film .

The BFA in studio art program begins with a year-long foundation program and ends with a senior studio capstone course. In this course, students develop a portfolio and plan their gallery showcase in small groups. The Tisch film program covers four primary stages: introductory, fundamental, intermediate, and advanced. After completing a bachelor's program, students interested in production design can apply to the MFA program.

Applicants to the Steinhardt School must submit a 12-15 piece portfolio with a statement of purpose. Tisch portfolio requirements include a one-page resume and the choice of 10-15 images or a five-minute short film. Students must also answer three creative prompts in visual and script format.

Located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, Tufts University offers 32 degree and certificate programs in art and design through the School of the Museum of Fine Arts , Boston.

The first year for BFA students consists of a heavy studio course load and an introductory theory course in visual and material studies. Over four years, students participate in eight review boards, presenting their semester work to a team of faculty and students. The review process helps students recognize the connection between their research projects and studio work while developing their own artistic direction.

Applicants can choose either a BFA or a combined degree program on the Tufts application. Both programs require a portfolio submission of either 15-20 images or up to 10 minutes of timed material.

A private research university in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Lehigh University offers 13 major and minor programs in art, design, and architecture . The four main BA programs provide students with a foundation for a career in art or a smooth transition to graduate studies.

The art major centers on the principle disciplines of drawing, painting, sculpture, and photography. Art majors can combine studies with a theatre major to specialize in costume design or pursue a minor in education to receive a teaching certificate. The design major includes studios combining communication through digital media with traditional artmaking. Both majors include five foundation courses in art history, two and three dimensional design, and drawing.

Applicants need to complete the Common Application or Coalition Application for Lehigh and a writing sample. Students earning a five on the AP Studio Art exam apply eight credits toward the first year foundation courses.

Drexel University, a private research university in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, awards degrees from 22 art and design programs . These programs include bachelor's and master's level instruction in design, production, and media management.

All BS majors begin with a foundation in studio art which aims to foster student creativity and solidify design fundamentals. As students continue within their chosen discipline, they will gain professional experience through the university's cooperative education program. Students can choose a four-year study track with one co-op, usually during the third year, or a five-year track, with three co-op placements.

The Westphal College of Media Arts & Design application includes an essay expressing the student's interest in their intended program. Some majors, such as animation, fashion design, and photography, require an 8-12 piece portfolio.

Georgetown University's Department of Art and Art History offers BA options in art and art history and an MA in art and museum studies. Students can choose one of eight media specializations in a combined studio and liberal arts curriculum.

After completing two introductory courses, students take three intermediate studios within a concentration. The four concentration options include drawing and printmaking; painting; sculpture; and photography, graphic design, and new media. Students must complete a senior art seminar to fulfill the university integrated writing requirement. The department hosts a senior art major exhibition in the spring.

The Office of Undergraduate Admissions bases decisions on a student's general application. Applicants can submit a supplemental portfolio of up to 20 images to convey substantial artistic talent not demonstrated on the general application.

University of Florida

University of Florida students have access to more than 200 research and education centers, and institutes. PhD degree in English at Florida provides doctoral students with more than 20 specialized academic tracks across all eras, genres, and theoretical/critical schools of thought. Students entering with a bachelor’s degree must complete a 90 credit hour degree. Students with an English master’s degree from another school must complete 60 hours required toward the PhD. Courses include studies in the track area, related studies, electives, and master’s research including a thesis and comprehensive oral examination. PhD students must complete foreign language requirements and defend a dissertation based on original scholarly research.

• In-State Tuition: $6,313
• Student Population: 50,645
• Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 89%
• Number of Students per Instructor: 21

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University opened in 1923. In 2013, 10 Texas Tech faculty members received Fulbright Scholarships, the most for any faculty in the nation. The PhD in English program reflects the university’s commitment to academic excellence, offering students the opportunity to advance scholarship in their field while concurrently learning to teach in multiple English disciplines. Areas of emphasis include British Literature, American Literature, Linguistics, Creative Writing, or Comparative Literature, Globalization and Translation. New specializations have been recently developed in 19th Century literature, Book History, Literature, Social Justice, and Environment, and Film & Media Studies.

• In-State Tuition: $7,811
• Student Population: 35,859
• Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid: 53%
• Number of Students per Instructor: 22

Your Degree: What Can I Do with a PhD in English?

An online PhD in English typically leads graduates into academia, as professors who teach English students and continue to study, research and publish papers in their field. This does not always have to be the case, however. Graduates from English PhD programs have proven their ability to focus, research, reason, write and explore: all qualities that can be essential in many job markets. Take a look at some examples of career paths a PhD in English could lead to below.

English Professor

English professors teach English and literature studies at a collegiate level. They may teach classes in their chosen area of specialization, such as literature from a certain period in history. Conducting research, remaining current in their field and publishing research papers is also a major part of an English professor’s job.

Job Growth (2014-2024): 13% Median Annual Salary (May 2015): $72,470

Grant Writer

Grant writers research, write and submit funding proposals for organizations, institutions, programs and individuals. They ask for sums of money from government or private foundations, tailoring their requests to connect the specific missions of their organization or program. Typically, grant writers request funding from programs designed to aid specific types of organizations or programs.

Job Growth (2014-2024): Data unavailable Median Annual Salary (May 2015): $43,718

Urban and Regional Planner

These professionals plan ways to use lands and programs to create communities, facilitate growth, generate interest in revitalization efforts and study the inner workings of cities and counties, in both metro and rural areas. They work with teams of people who have a wide range of skills, from infrastructure and construction to data gathering and surveying. They are great communicators and problem solvers.

Job Growth (2014-2024): 6.3 % Median Annual Salary (May 2015): $68,220

Survey Researcher

In addition to conducting surveys and analyzing their data, survey researches design a wide variety of information gathering tools to ask questions. Their objective is to understand the perspectives, beliefs, traditions and preferences different people hold based on a variety of factors, such as demographics or economic group. Survey researchers can cover work across any number of fields, from advertising to politics.

Job Growth (2014-2024): 12% Median Annual Salary (May 2015): $53,920

Additional English PhD Resources

Below is a collection of free online resources for current PhD students, English and humanities membership organizations, and career and networking resources for English PhD graduates seeking careers beyond colleges or universities. English PhD scholars dedicate their time to very narrow areas of literature, but the skills can be applied in so many different jobs and situations.

Best Accredited Online Ph.D. Programs 2024

Online Ph.D. programs provide students with flexible schedules and affordable tuition. Check out the top-ranked programs in this comprehensive guide.

Best Accredited Online Master’s Programs 2024

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Shape your future with an online degree.

Connect with a community of peers, and find a program that will allow you to continue your education in a fast and flexible way.

2024 Best Online PhD in English Programs

If you love words and communication, it may be your goal to earn an online PhD in English.

Holding a doctoral degree is a common requirement for jobs in academia, such as being an English professor or a humanities researcher. Having a PhD isn’t just for working in a college, though.

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Whether you plan to be a professor or a practitioner, you can satisfy your desire to study language and writing by completing a distance learning PhD in English.

Universities Offering Online PhD in English Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer English degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University—Chicago offers an online program for a PhD in Leadership with a specialization in Reading, Language, and Literacy.

Students must complete 67 credits to graduate. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must also submit 2 letters of recommendation and a personal statement about their goals.

Concordia University Chicago  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Murray State University

Murray State University offers an online Doctor of Arts in English Pedagogy program. The program offers four different specializations: Language, Literacy, Literature, and Writing.

Students who have a master’s degree only need to complete 48 credit hours of coursework. Applicants with a minimum GPA of 3.2 and 3 letters of recommendation can enroll at any point during the year. Murray State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University

National University offers an online program for a PhD in Education with an emphasis in English Language Learning.

To graduate, students must obtain 60 credit hours. The program can usually be completed in 37 months. Students can start the program at any time and can determine their own schedule with no preset lecture hours or due dates.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers an online PhD in English program. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.5, a GRE score above the 70th percentile, and 3 letters of recommendation.

Students choose two emphases from Literary and Cultural Studies, Writing, Rhetoric, and Discourse Studies, Technology and Media Studies, or a student-designed emphasis. A total of 48 credits are needed to graduate. Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Ohio University

Ohio University offers an online PhD in English program. Students can choose a concentration in one of three areas: Literary History, Creative Writing, or Rhetoric and Composition.

Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and 2 years of undergraduate coursework related to foreign languages and should submit GRE scores and 3 letters of recommendation.

Ohio University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Rowan University

Rowan University offers a PhD in Education with an option to add a Language and Literacy Concentration.

Students must complete 72 semester hours, with 15 hours dedicated to the specialization. A thesis or project is required to graduate. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 and 3 letters of recommendation.

Rowan University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

St. John’s University

St. John’s University offers an online PhD in Literacy program. To graduate, students must complete 42 credit hours and a dissertation project under the supervision of a faculty member. The program can typically be completed within 3 to 4 years. Applicants should have a GPA of 3.2 or higher, GRE scores, and 2 letters of recommendation.

St. John’s University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University offers an online PhD in English program. Applicants must submit 4 letters of recommendation, transcripts, and GRE scores.

Students may choose to add a specialization to their degree with a concentration in Written Discourse, Theory and Practice, or Critical Literacy. The program is designed for those interested in teaching English and requires a teaching residency.

Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University offers an online program for a PhD in English with the option to take a concentration in Literature, Creative Writing, or Linguistics. At least 60 course hours and a qualifying exam are needed to graduate. Applicants must submit 3 letters of recommendation, a resume, and all transcripts.

Texas Tech University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Houston

The University of Houston offers an online program for a PhD in Professional Leadership with an emphasis in Literacy Education.

Students must complete 51 credit hours with a GPA of 3.0 to graduate. Courses last for 5 to 6 weeks. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and must submit 3 letters of recommendation, a resume, and transcripts.

The  University of Houston  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Online PhD in English Programs

A doctorate in English is a terminal degree for people who are interested in various aspects of the English language, including literature and writing.

During your program, you may have the opportunity to spend several years engaged in serious study, so you’ll probably want to select a topic in the field that fascinates you. Some areas of study include medieval literature, gender studies, written discourse, modern grammar, or film criticism.

In a doctoral English program, you’ll typically complete a series of coursework toward the beginning of your studies. While a handful of your classes might be prescribed, you may be at liberty to select much of your own curriculum.

Topics you might study in online English PhD programs include:

• Cultures and societies
• Composition and rhetoric
• Grammar and syntax
• Literature from various time periods
• Research methods
• Teaching methods

Many students enter English PhD programs because they want to have careers in academia. In a linguistics department, you might teach courses and work on research projects. Taking classes on instructional methods during your program can help you prepare for that role.

As a PhD candidate, you’ll typically need to undertake a major research project. Completing the research and the writing for your dissertation can take several years. Along the way, you’ll take classes to help you get started, and you’ll have the support of a faculty advisor.

After completing your doctoral program, you might look for a job at a university or another academic institution. You can also pursue research opportunities outside of college settings. Having a PhD in English might also enhance your career as a writer, an editor, or a journalist.

Your developed communication skills can also be useful in the fields of public relations or business administration. Some graduates become education administrators or K-12 teachers as well.

English Major Careers & Salaries

Many students who enroll in English doctoral programs want to become college professors. As a faculty member of a university’s English department, you might teach writing or literature. You may have opportunities to conduct research in the humanities as well.

Getting a faculty job can entail a lot of competition. Fortunately, there are plenty of other options you can pursue with a degree in English lit or language.

Being a professor isn’t the only option for working in education. With a teaching license, you can qualify to teach in a high school’s English education department. Those with a PhD may also pursue roles as college administrators.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , there are various career paths open for people with a Ph.D. in English.

The publishing industry especially relies on strong writing skills. Some graduates become authors or editors. The process of researching and writing a dissertation might prepare you for the role of a technical writer, relaying complicated information in understandable ways.

In fact, nearly any job that depends on communication skills might benefit from your doctoral background. Public relations managers and administrative managers are two such positions that require solid communication skills.

Journalism and on-air reporting are other lines of work to consider. Audiences might appreciate your ability to explain complicated situations or to help them consider different perspectives.

English Doctorate Curriculum & Courses

As a doctoral student, you may have a good deal of flexibility to choose what courses you take as part of your program.

The English departments at many schools offer a vast lineup of courses. That might allow you to build a curriculum that supports your professional goals and research interests. Examples of courses that might be offered at your school include:

• American Literature : You could study a particular period in American history, the social forces that shaped that era, and the works that came out of it.
• British Literature : Writers you might study in a British lit class include Shakespeare, Chaucer, Marlowe, and Wordsworth.
• Communicating Through Mixed Media : You can learn to deliver effective messages on digital platforms through a mix of words, images, and other elements.
• Grammar of the English Language : You’ll study traditional and modern issues related to syntax and other aspects of grammar.
• Humanities Research : This course will introduce you to graduate-level research practices for people who study English or other humanities subjects.
• Key Questions for English Scholars : During this course, you may study literature theories, methods of analysis, and perspectives through which to view various works.
• Medieval Literature : In this course, you might familiarize yourself with early forms of the English language or explore ways that medieval works have influenced modern writers.
• Multicultural Language Studies : As you explore works from around the world, you may discuss the challenge of translating ideas from one culture to another.
• Statistics for Linguistics : You’ll learn how to apply quantitative statistical methods when analyzing your research data.
• Teaching Writing : Your time in this class can help you become a more effective educator who brings out the best in students’ composition skills.

Some of these classes may be designed to prepare you for a dissertation project. A significant portion of your doctoral program may be devoted to completing the dissertation.

Admissions Requirements

English departments typically look for doctoral students with a solid academic background and impressive writing skills. To demonstrate that you’re the right candidate for a doctoral program, you may need to submit the following:

• Application form and fee
• College transcripts
• GRE scores (if required)
• Resume or curriculum vitae
• Writing sample

GRE scores are not a universal requirement for graduate admission, so your school may not request them or may grant waivers to qualified applicants.

Accreditation

A doctoral degree in English will require a lot of your time, attention, and effort. It’s strategic to make sure that you’re investing your resources wisely by choosing to study at a college that holds regional accreditation .

To become accredited, a school must take its educational mission seriously. It has to undergo an evaluation process in which it demonstrates honest practices and a commitment to academic excellence.

Accredited degrees garner greater respect from institutions and employers. When you’re looking for a job, holding a regionally accredited PhD may increase your chances of securing a desirable role.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

As part of your preparation for graduate school, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

You may qualify for government student aid, and you might be able to take out state or federal loans with a lower interest rate than you’d get with private loans. You may also be eligible for a work-study program.

Some colleges finance part or all of a PhD student’s education through teaching or research assistant programs. Your commitment to supporting the school’s English program may significantly reduce the price of your doctoral degree.

There’s also the possibility of earning scholarships or fellowships from private sources. These gifts may support you for one or more years of your program. If your studies will benefit your current employer, you can see if a workplace tuition program will cover part of your PhD costs.

Professional Organizations

Joining a professional organization can help you sharpen your abilities as a wordsmith, an educator, or a leader in linguistics. Your group might offer resources like conferences, journals, job boards, and discussion forums.

• Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP)
• Modern Language Association (MLA)
• National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)

Being a part of a professional organization can allow you to enhance your studies while in school. Your membership can continue to provide benefits after you complete your doctoral program.

Can You Get a PhD in English?

Yes, there is a Doctor of Philosophy in English degree. There are programs focused on literary criticism and others dedicated to the study of writing and rhetoric. Both online and on-campus PhD programs are available.

Course topics you might take during an English PhD program include literature theories, history of the English language, and 19th century American literature. You may also take classes focused on research, technical writing, and teaching. This group of courses can prepare you for your dissertation project and a potential career in academia.

What Can You Do with a PhD in English?

Many people want to earn their PhDs because they have their sights set on academic careers. You might want to teach university English courses or also work on original research. Your degree in English literature or composition can be useful in other fields as well.

Having a doctoral degree might establish you as a top candidate for various jobs in which communication is an essential skill. Common communication careers include working in education, public relations, writing, editing, and broadcasting.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in English?

How long it takes you to earn your English doctorate is largely up to you and your schedule.

A couple of years will probably be spent on required coursework. In accelerated English degree online programs with fast-track classes, you might be able to complete your classes in a shorter length of time. Most of your program, though, will be spent on the dissertation process. It may take you several years to complete the necessary research and write your document.

Students generally end up in a doctoral program for around 3 to 5 years. Others may spend longer on the process.

Is a PhD in English Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in English is worth it for many students. If you’re set on becoming an English professor, having this degree is typically a necessity.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary teaching positions are growing at a 9% rate. Even still, some humanities departments are shrinking, so competition for English positions may be tight.

Before committing, it’s worthwhile to consider other benefits—such as the opportunity to immerse yourself in in-depth studies. A doctorate can also be useful in writing, editing, or administrative careers.

Getting Your PhD in English Online

If you have a deep passion for words and the messages they carry, then you may consider earning a PhD in English. A PhD is especially necessary if your plans involve searching for a job as a college professor.

Through your studies, you can also refine your communication skills. Your writing and speaking prowess can be useful in sectors like publishing, media, and public relations. Just as there are online masters programs in English , for your English PhD studies, you can also attend classes online. Through distance learning, you can earn a doctorate in English according to your own schedule.

If you’re ready to take the next in your educational journey, you can start by exploring online English PhD programs from accredited colleges.

• Prospective Students
• Transfer Students
• Military Students
• Degree Completers
• International Students
• Current Students
• Request Information

English Doctoral Program Online

• Doctor of Philosophy
• College of Arts & Letters
• Department of English

Why ODU for English?

ODU's PhD in English integrates writing, rhetoric, discourse, technology, and textual studies. The course work and research opportunities appeal to those pursuing an academic career as well as professionals with careers outside the classroom.

Your research will examine texts in a variety of overlapping and sometimes competing language-based worlds. You'll focus on texts and media when it comes to form, purpose, technology, audience, cultural location, and communities.

Focus your studies by choosing two of four emphasis areas from:

• Literary and cultural studies
• Writing, rhetoric, and discourse studies
• Technology and media studies
• A student-designed emphasis

When you graduate, you will earn a Doctor of Philosophy degree in English.

Want to learn more? Contact us!

Most Affordable Online PhD in English, 2023 - AcademicInfluence.com

Required Courses

• 48 credit hours

All part-time students must attend two Summer Doctoral Institutes at ODU's main campus. This satisfies the residency requirements for this degree.

Contact us to talk with an advisor to determine if you have credits that will transfer. 

• See Course Details in the ODU Graduate Catalog

Online Learning Environment

Participate in live, regularly scheduled online class meetings and access course materials online from any location. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

This program requires attendance at two Summer Doctoral Institutes at ODU's main campus. Each institute is two weeks long and is held in July.

• Online Experience

Careers in English

• Writing/Editing
• Advertising
• Public Relations
• Business/Industry
• Digital Design

Calculating Cost

Rates are effective Fall 2024 and subject to change. * In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

• Explore ODUGlobal Cost & Aid

Meet Your Team

You'll have a dedicated academic advisor for this program.

Contact us if you have questions about admission requirements, transferring credits, or application deadlines.

Ready to get started?

How to apply.

If you don't have some significant background in an English-related field, the department encourages you to take master’s level coursework in English before applying. Detailed information about admission to the PhD in English program is available from  the department's website .

• Request Info

Want to get started now?

You may be able to take up to four courses (12 credit hours) as a non-degree graduate student, before you are accepted into a specific degree program. 

Please contact us to discuss this option with an expert advisor.

• Best Online Doctoral Programs

Best Online Doctoral Programs Of 2024

Updated: Apr 23, 2024, 1:42pm

The best online doctoral programs offer flexibility and convenience that can make it easier for you to pursue an advanced degree, often while working full time.

Earning a doctorate can help you advance to the highest roles in your field and increase your salary potential. It’s also a chance for you to gain an advanced understanding of impactful issues and develop the skills to generate new ideas, solve problems and create meaningful change.

Below, learn about the best online doctoral programs in a variety of fields, including social work, psychology, education and nursing.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We ranked accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online doctoral degree programs in the U.S. using metrics in the categories of student experience, credibility, student outcomes and affordability. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

We scored schools based on the following data points:

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• Portion of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition and fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Student loan default rate

We chose the best schools to display in 10 categories of doctoral degrees.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

• Best Online Colleges With A 100% Acceptance Rate
• Best HBCUs With Online Degrees
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• Best Online Master's Programs
• What Are The Best Online Public Universities

Best Online Doctoral Program Options

Should you enroll in an online ph.d. program or doctorate, accreditation for online doctoral degrees, how to find the right online doctorate for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online ph.d. programs and doctorates.

• Best online Psy.D.: Rivier University
• Best online Doctor of Nursing Practice: University of Central Florida
• Best online Doctor of Business Administration: Walsh College
• Best online doctorate in physical therapy: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
• Best online doctorate in education: Johns Hopkins University
• Best online Ph.D. in organizational leadership: Indiana Wesleyan University
• Best online Ph.D. in counseling: Concordia University-Irvine
• Best online Doctor of Social Work: University of Southern California
• Best online Ph.D. in public administration: West Chester University of Pennsylvania
• Best online doctorate in educational leadership: Fairfield University

Best Online Psy.D.

Rivier university.

Program Tuition Rate

$1,275/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

Located in Nashua, New Hampshire, Rivier University offers a hybrid Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) with a limited number of online classes. The American Psychology Association-accredited program focuses on school psychology and counseling and prepares you to work as a psychologist in various environments. You’ll learn clinical diagnosis, assessment, prevention and intervention skills.

Students must attend full time and can work no more than 20 hours per week. It takes a minimum of five years to graduate.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on a set schedule
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: $100
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60-130 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Fundamentals of research, group counseling
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, includes a 2,000-hour internship and at least six practicum experiences

Best Doctor of Nursing Practice

University of central florida.

$372/credit (in-state)

At University of Central Florida (UCF), practicing nurses can earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice. The advanced track program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and prepares nurses for clinical leadership roles in the field.

Coursework explores clinical management, communication skills and epidemiology principles. You’ll develop research and practice skills, learn to improve healthcare systems, develop health policy and analyze data to improve individual and population health.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $30
• Degree Credit Requirements: 42 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time, full-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare systems and policy, nursing environment management
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, includes clinical hours (but all coursework is available online)

Best Doctor of Business Administration

Walsh college.

$1,038/credit

You can earn an online Doctor of Business Administration from Walsh College in Troy, Michigan. The part-time, online program includes asynchronous coursework and real-time Zoom classes, as well as optional opportunities to interact on campus. You can develop advanced business knowledge and skills to become a business leader or consultant.

In addition to coursework, you must pass a preliminary exam and complete a 15-credit dissertation process. The program requires students to graduate within seven years.

• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Foundations for business success, qualitative and exploratory research methods
• In-Person Requirements: No

Best Doctorate in Physical Therapy

Texas tech university health sciences center.

$265/credit (in-state)

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center designed its hybrid Doctor of Science in physical therapy to help practicing physical therapists advance their careers. The post-professional 36-credit program takes four to five years to complete part time.

The flexible format makes it possible for students to keep working while attending school. Learners attend weekend lectures and labs at the Lubbock, Texas, campus. During the week, they supplement their in-person instruction with online assignments.

• Application Fee: $75
• Degree Credit Requirements: 36 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Medical screening for rehabilitation sciences, motor control in orthopedics
• Concentrations Available: Research track, teaching track
• In-Person Requirements: Yes

Best Online Doctorate in Education

Johns hopkins university.

$2,100/credit

Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland offers an online Ed.D. The part-time degree takes four years to complete and explores topics like the social determinants of education, entrepreneurship and technology.

You can customize the degree by choosing electives that align with your professional interests and by selecting one or more “areas of interest,” such as urban leadership or digital age learning and educational technology. Applicants need a master’s degree with at least 36 graduate credits to qualify for the program.

• Application Fee: $80
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Approaches to urban education, partnerships and community organizing
• Concentrations Available: Creativity, advanced learning, and twice exceptionality; digital age learning and educational technology; entrepreneurial leadership in education; mind, brain, and teaching; urban leadership

Best Online Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership

Indiana wesleyan university.

$890/credit

Located in Marion, Indiana Wesleyan University offers an online Ph.D. in organizational leadership that can prepare you to become an effective leader in as few as four years. The program focuses on inclusion, multiculturalism and international perspectives and develops research, presentation and executive skills.

You must attend an in-person residency during the July session, but the rest of the program takes place online and offers flexibility for working professionals. The school’s tuition guarantee locks in your tuition rate when you start the program.

• Application Fee: Free
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Advanced leadership theory, statistical research design
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, includes an in-person residency

Best Online Ph.D. in Counseling

Concordia university – irvine.

$795/credit

Concordia University – Irvine in Irvine, California, is a Christian institution that offers a “biblically informed” online Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision from its Townsend Institute. Designed for licensed mental health professionals, the degree develops advanced skills and prepares you for leadership roles in counseling, teaching and advocacy.

The accelerated program takes three to four years to complete. It requires two in-person residencies and a total of 700 hours of internship and practicum field experiences. In addition to coursework, you must complete a culminating 12-credit dissertation that includes original counseling research and a successful oral defense.

• Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Advanced counseling and career theories, advanced multicultural issues in counselor education and supervision
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, requires two in-person residencies, a practicum and an internship

Best Online Doctor of Social Work

University of southern california.

$2,137/credit

University of Southern California ‘s online Doctor of Social Work from the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work emphasizes the importance of scholarship and practice in the field. Created for experienced social work professionals, the program can help you become a leader working toward social change and innovation.

The program offers a seven-semester accelerated track and a standard nine-semester option. In a capstone experience, learners research and create a prototype that addresses a current problem in social work.

• Application Fee: $90
• Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated, full-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Leading public discourse, financial management for social change

Best Online Ph.D. in Public Administration

West chester university of pennsylvania.

$645/credit (in-state)

West Chester University of Pennsylvania ’s online Doctor of Public Administration can prepare you for high-level roles in public affairs and administration. The program is offered by the College of Business and Public Management, accredited by Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, and the Department of Public Policy and Administration, accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration.

The curriculum explores strategic management, policy advocacy and decision-making in the public sector. The dissertation allows you to complete an applied research project. You can take electives and choose a concentration from multiple departments, including psychology, graduate social work and criminal justice.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 45 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Strategic public sector management and governance, research design for program and policy evaluation
• Concentrations Available: Options from multiple departments

Best Online Doctorate in Educational Leadership

Fairfield university.

$1,120/credit

At Fairfield University in Fairfield, Connecticut, you can earn an online, low-residency Doctor of Education in educational leadership. The program offers two tracks: teacher leader for certified working educators or higher education administration for higher education professionals.

Students enroll in the cohort-style program in the fall and graduate in three years by taking six credits per semester. Learners can build community during two one-week summer residencies. Applicants need a master’s degree in a relevant field and a minimum 3.0 GPA.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• Application Fee: $65
• Degree Credit Requirements: 57
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Action research for educational change, framing and critical analysis of problems of practice
• Concentrations Available: Teacher leader, higher education administration
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, requires two one-week residencies

An online Ph.D. program or doctorate can offer many compelling features for students, but it might not be the right choice for everyone. Consider the questions below when deciding whether to pursue your doctorate online or in person.

• What type of schedule do you need? Online programs typically offer more flexibility that appeals to students who work full time or have personal responsibilities to fit around their school schedule. Online degrees allow learners to pursue higher education without putting their career on hold. This is especially true for programs that offer asynchronous coursework that students complete on their own time.
• What learning style works best for you? Do you work well independently and with a lot of freedom? If so, an online doctorate might be a good fit for you. If you think you’d prefer the camaraderie of an in-person cohort graduate program and structured opportunities to interact with instructors, an on-campus or hybrid program might suit you better.
• How does the program format affect your budget? Online programs can help you save on tuition, housing and transportation costs. For example, many public schools allow you to pay the same tuition, regardless of where you live. However, you might miss funding opportunities typically reserved for on-campus students, such as graduate teaching assistantships, research assistantships and fellowships.

The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) approve accrediting agencies that give schools institutional accreditation in the U.S.

Institutional accreditation means that a university has met minimum quality requirements related to its academics, financial management, faculty and staff, and student resources and services. To qualify for federal financial aid, you must attend an accredited college.

Programmatic accreditation is a separate process that gives special recognition to individual degrees, programs or departments within a university. Depending on your field, you might need a programmatically accredited degree to get a job or qualify for professional licenses or certifications.

You can search for a prospective school’s accreditation status on CHEA’s website .

Consider Your Future Goals

An online doctorate has the potential to help you achieve your career aspirations. However, not every program in your field will necessarily align with your goals. Before you choose an online doctorate program, think about your post-graduation plans.

For example, some online doctorate programs require professional experience through an internship or a practicum. This type of hands-on learning can help you develop your expertise and professional network. But these experiences usually take place in person and can be hard to fit into your schedule if you’re working full time.

You should also consider if you need a specific license or certification to get the job you want. If so, research the credential’s requirements to learn if your degree needs to meet certain criteria. For example, you may need to complete an accredited program or complete supervised clinical hours.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Tuition rates for online doctoral programs in our guide vary significantly, from $265 to $2,137 per credit. Most programs required 42 to 60 credits, with some exceptions. In total, the degrees ranked on our list cost between $9,540 and $113,400.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics , grad students at private, nonprofit schools paid an average tuition of $20,408 in 2022–23, while public school tuition cost $11,554 per year. Doctorate programs typically take at least three years to complete, putting total costs between $34,662 and $61,224.

Find funding for your online Ph.D. by filling out the FAFSA®, which can connect you with scholarships, grants and student loans. Many schools also provide funding to graduate students through scholarships, grants and fellowships.

Can you do a Ph.D. fully online?

Yes, many schools offer fully online Ph.D. programs. However, depending on the program and the field of study, you may need to complete on-campus residencies or field experiences like internships or practicums that take place in person.

What is the fastest Ph.D. to get online?

Program length for online Ph.D. programs varies depending on your field of study. You might be able to find some accelerated online Ph.D. programs that you can finish in less than two years. However, the best online doctoral programs on our list take at least three years to complete.

Are online doctoral degrees respected?

An online doctoral degree from an accredited university can provide the same rigorous education and training as a comparable on-campus program. If you’re concerned about whether or not your degree will be respected, consider doing some research about the way that your field or profession tends to view online doctoral degrees.

What is the best online school for a Ph.D.?

The best online school for a Ph.D. depends on your field of study, personal interests and career goals. Make sure that any prospective online school is institutionally accredited. Depending on the degree you want to pursue, it might also be important to find a program with separate programmatic accreditation.

Liz Simmons has been writing for various online publications about career development, higher education and college affordability for nearly a decade. Her articles demystify the college application process and help prospective students figure out how to choose a major or career path.