Distance Learning PhD

A distance learning PhD is designed for students who cannot opt for a traditional on-campus PhD degree. Such degrees involve online classes and require availability of internet and a computer.

What Is a Distance Learning PhD?

Students enrolled in distance learning PhDs follow a slightly different curriculum with online lectures, seminars, assignments and so on. They have the ease of completing it on their own pace, however, many universities set a certain time limit for completion to motivate students to complete the degree. A distance learning PhD can be pursued in a diverse selection of subjects and is offered by numerous well reputed universities in the US.

What Can You Do with a Distance Learning PhD?

A PhD degree essentially prepares you for a career in teaching or research. However, there are doctoral degree programs for professional fields too which help the pursuant of such degrees in obtaining promotions and getting better pays. Graduates of a PhD degree are considered to be experts of their particular field. Distance Learning PhDs are available in fields like, criminal justice, business, education, health, engineering, technology and so on. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported career outlooks for following professions in 2018-19 as follows.

Postsecondary Teachers- Postsecondary Business Teachers

Business teachers at the postsecondary level are supposed to prepare and teach courses in business management and administration such as, human resources, marketing, finance and accounting etc. They also engage students in research activities to solve existing problems in the industry.

Computer and Information Research Scientists

Computer and Information Research Scientists typically carry out research related to computer and information science theories. They design or invent solutions to existing problems in computer hardware or software.

What to Expect from a Distance Learning PhD?

There are various universities in the US that offer all kinds of distance learning PhD programs in a wide range of subjects. For instance, the University of Florida offers distance learning/online PhD degrees in the following subjects:

• Classical Civilization
• Educational Leadership      
• Educational Technology      
• Higher Education Administration and more.

Whereas, the Penn State university offers,

• Doctor of Nursing Practice

While, the University of Maryland offers the following online doctoral degrees in the field of Business;

• Business Administration
• Management in Community College Policy and Administration

How to Choose a Distance Learning PhD?

While choosing a distance learning PhD program, the most important thing is to check whether the degree being offered is accredited by a well-reputed organization or not. The accreditation matters the most because this is what determines the authenticity and quality of the program. Employers typically hire individuals who are graduates of universities with a good reputation and have completed programs that are accredited. Other important factors include diversity of the faculty, duration of program, fee structure and graduation requirements etc.

Distance Learning PhD Admission Requirements

The requirements of admission widely vary from one university to another and also from one type of degree to another. For example, a GRE/GMAT score is a must while applying to a Business degree. However, it may not be required for a language degree. Other variations include, number of recommendation letters, minimum GPA requirements and so on. You must visit the official website of your desired university and degree for complete details.