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Best Free PhD Programs 2025. Fully funded Online PhD programs

When you research about PhD programs, you may see that some are quite popular. Some include fully funded online PhD programs.

It represents a golden opportunity wherein all tuition fees and living expenses are covered by the educational institution, allowing students to focus on their research and studies free from financial constraints.

In this blog post, we explore what fully funded really means, share the my personal journey of pursuing a PhD in Australia, delve into the policies of various countries offering free or nearly free PhD programs, and provide key tips for securing a fully funded PhD opportunity.

Whether you’re considering a domestic program or an international adventure, the insights and tips offered here could pave the way to an invaluable, financially stress-free academic journey.

Fully Funded Online PhD Programs In The US

Here are some examples of PhD programs in the states that have been free and fully funded through scholarships and other grants that you may be able to apply for:

Online and On-Campus Doctoral Degrees

fully funded online phd programs

  • Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at UCLA are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes “a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support, and up to four years of teaching assistantships.” Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

Connecticut

  • At Yale University, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care.

District of Columbia

  • Georgetown University offers scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years to students in its PhD program in computer science.
  • Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student’s cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.
  • The University of Chicago provides funding for up to eight years of study for its anthropology PhD students. This includes a full-tuition scholarship, health insurance, and a living stipend of $33,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year. Students are also eligible to apply for external fellowships.
  • University of Notre Dame doctoral students are guaranteed five years of funding, ensuring that their doctorate program is supported financially. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance, making it similar to free tuition.
  • The Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa provides full funding to “virtually all admitted students.” This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments, and 90% coverage of comprehensive health insurance. Additional funding is also provided for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships, and paid time off for independent research.
  • At the University of Maryland’s Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master’s degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master’s degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships.

Massachusetts

  • The T.H. Chan School of Public Health at Harvard University offers a PhD in biological sciences in public health, providing expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend, and health insurance for five years, assuming students maintain satisfactory academic progress. Current research involves diseases such as AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria, and tuberculosis.
  • Students enrolled at the Sloan School of Management at MIT have the opportunity to study various fields, such as organization studies, accounting, and information technology. They receive a full-tuition scholarship, a monthly stipend of $4,267, medical insurance, new laptops at the start of their first and fourth years of study, and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.
  • Doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees, and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, but it’s not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships, and short-term research and travel grants.
  • Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend, and health insurance. The exact amount can vary and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.
  • Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend, and subsidized health insurance.
  • PhD students in computer science or computer engineering at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support, health insurance, a generous stipend for living expenses, and a new high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as long as students continue to make satisfactory progress towards their degree.
  • Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.
  • All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years.
  • Cornell University offers full funding to all students admitted to its PhD program in chemical engineering. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship, or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months, with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.
  • Columbia University provides fully funded tuition and a $25,000 annual stipend for three years to students enrolled in its PhD program in clinical psychology. This stipend also carries into the student’s fourth year, during which they may be expected to serve as a graduate teaching or research assistant.

North Carolina

  • Doctoral students at Duke University studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend, and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university’s student medical insurance plan.

Pennsylvania

  • The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.
  • Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College’s Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and “substantial stipends” toward living expenses.
  • University of Notre Dame doctoral students are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance.

Rhode Island

  • Brown University guarantees full financial support for five years to its PhD students in computer science. This includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees, and a subsidy for health insurance.
  • Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at Vanderbilt University. This includes full tuition, a “competitive” monthly stipend, and health insurance for up to four years.
  • Rice University offers full financial assistance to students admitted to the PhD program at the Jones Graduate School of Business. This includes a research or teaching assistantship, a tuition waiver, and a $40,000 annual stipend, contingent upon maintaining satisfactory academic progress and full-time student status.
  • All students admitted to the University of Virginia’s Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance, and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant.

Washington D.C.

  • American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean’s Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees, and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant.
  • The University of Wisconsin—Madison guarantees full funding for the duration of the time doctoral students are expected to be on campus. This funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships, and/or traineeships. In addition, doctoral students receive a benefits package that includes health insurance.

Can You Get A Fully Funded PhD Program Online – The Truth About Doctoral Programs!

It is very uncommon to find a fully free online PhD program – Universities are businesses and want you to pay money to get their qualifications.  Also, it is very common for PhD students to get paid via stipends throughout their PhD.

However, there are countries that offer scholarships and fee-waived places in their doctoral programs – check that out below!

Typically, Ph.D. programs require tuition unless otherwise stated or funded by scholarships, grants, or assistantships.

In general, online Ph.D. programs require tuition payments, but financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and assistantships can reduce or cover costs for eligible students, making these online phd studies more accessible.

Always check the specific program details for financial aid opportunities.

What Does Fully Funded Mean In a Doctorate Program?

The concept of a “fully funded” PhD program signifies that the entirety of expenses related to the doctoral program is covered. This includes tuition fees, which are either waived or entirely paid for by the educational institution.

Beyond tuition, the program also encompasses a living stipend or allowance given to doctoral students. 

Fully funded PhD programs essentially function as a comprehensive scholarship , covering everything from tuition fees to books and other necessary supplies.

free phd degree online

While the stipend amount can vary based on the institution, it is generally sufficient to cater to the basic living expenses of the students, covering rent, food, and transportation costs.

The main aim of providing this stipend to doctoral students is to facilitate a learning environment where they can focus entirely on their studies, research, and dissertation, without the distraction of financial pressures. 

Universities, including public ones, offer these fee-waived doctoral programs with the intention to draw in the best students.

These students, in turn, are expected to contribute significantly to the advancement of research in their respective fields and derive a high-quality education from their doctorates.

It is important to note that eligibility for these scholarships or stipends requires proof of commitment to the doctoral degree. In my experience, this meant securing a top-class master’s degree.

This reassured the university of my dedication to pursuing a PhD and furthering my education.

In recent years, there has been a rise in such fully funded programs online , offering a wider reach for prospective PhDs.

As we move further into 2023, students may increasingly opt for these online PhD programmes, making the pursuit of doctoral degrees more accessible than ever.

Countries with a free PhD / fully funded PhD – How much does a PhD cost in other countries?

Sometimes doing a free PhD means going abroad and doing your PhD in another country.

Personally, I travelled to Australia to do my PhD for the adventure and lifestyle. I was able to get a fee-waived placement and international student fee waiver for three years to finish my degree.

Here’s a summary of some of the best countries you could do you PhD in if you want to do it for free.

In the Czech Republic , public universities host a multitude of English-language PhD programs and these programs are free for all PhD students, irrespective of their nationality.

However, additional costs may be incurred by international students which might include language courses, health insurance, or student services fees, depending on the university policies.

Sweden maintains a unique policy that not only eradicates PhD fees at public universities but also provides study grants to some PhD students, which serves as a financial aid for their living expenses during the tenure of their studies.

In Germany , public universities offer feeless PhD programs to all students, which can include free PhD programs online. However, a nominal administration fee, approximately €300 per semester, is required.

This fee usually covers student services and perks like public transportation and access to university facilities.

fully funded online phd programs

Austria ‘s policy benefits PhD students from within the EU and EEA who complete their doctorates within a stipulated time frame, offering free education at public research universities.

International students, on the other hand, have to pay fees, which, nonetheless, are capped by the Austrian government to maintain affordability.

Norway , like its Nordic counterparts, offers free PhD education at public universities to all students, regardless of their origin. But a small semester fee, usually covering student services, is obligatory.

Denmark also practices a policy of free PhD education for EU, EEA, and Swiss students at public universities, but international students are required to pay fees, which are generally on the higher side compared to other European countries.

Finland doesn’t discriminate in terms of nationality and offers free PhD studies at public universities. However, international students are charged for their Masters programs.

Saudi Arabia stands out with its unique policy where all PhD students are awarded scholarships that automatically cover their education fees, as well as help them with living expenses.

In the Netherlands , PhD study isn’t universally free, but many institutions extend the offer of free PhD study to international postgraduates. Some universities consider the PhD students as university employees, offering them a waiver on fees and potentially a salary or benefits.

Switzerland , although not offering free PhD studies, keeps its fees low at around CHF 1500 per year at public universities. State-funded PhD positions are also available to EU, EEA, and Swiss students that come with no fees and a maintenance grant.

Top tips for finding a PhD for free – online and on-campus

Here are the top tips I would give you when Choosing a free PhD.

  • Apply to STEM programs: Many PhD (and Master’s) programs, especially in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) fields, are fully funded in the US. Most state schools and Ivy League schools have fully funded programs for these fields.
  • Prepare for stiff competition: Because these programs are fully funded, the competition is high. It’s not uncommon for hundreds or even thousands of students to apply to these programs each year, with only a small fraction being accepted.
  • Consider assistantships: Fully-funded programs usually provide a stipend in the form of Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) or Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) positions. These roles involve either teaching or conducting research under a professor’s supervision.
  • Be ready for some costs: Despite tuition being covered, you may still need to cover some school fees, student insurance, and other miscellaneous expenditures.
  • Don’t consider unfunded programs: Many graduate programs do not fund students, but experts advise against attending these schools. The availability of funding indicates the health of the department in terms of research money and growth.
  • Work on your application: The application process generally starts around September to December for many accredited online doctorate degrees. Standardized tests such as GRE and TOEFL/IELTS are required, along with transcripts, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose.
  • Avoid programs that require you to pay: It’s a common sentiment among experts that if you’re paying to be a PhD student, there might be something wrong with the program.
  • Apply for fellowships: There are graduate fellowships available for international students that cover tuition and offer a monthly stipend.

Wrapping up – Free Doctoral Degree Program And Online Doctoral Program – Get A PhD

This comprehensive article delves into everything you need to know about free PhD programs, also known as fully funded PhD programs, including the essential details, benefits, and potential challenges that students may encounter.

The term “free PhD” generally refers to a fully funded program that covers tuition fees and provides a stipend for living expenses, allowing students to complete their PhD studies without financial burden.

It is crucial to understand why you should never enter a PhD program without proper funding. Hence, pursuing a free or fully funded PhD should be a priority for all PhD students, regardless of nationality or field of study.

These programs may be offered both online and on-campus by various top universities around the world.

Fully funded PhD programs cater to both international and local students, including those pursuing a traditional PhD, online doctorate, or an accelerated executive doctorate of education.

For instance, fully funded online PhD programs in fields like business administration, education policy, and social work in clinical practice are available for students who hold master’s or bachelor’s degrees.

The duration of these programs may range from 1 year for fast-track or shortest doctoral programs to several years for other disciplines, including online phd studies. Moreover, many programs focus on specialization in subjects like higher education policy, laboratory research, and much more.

One of the perks of these programs is that many institutions provide a stipend to cover living expenses during the course of study, ensuring that students can focus entirely on their research without worrying about financial constraints.

What does a fully funded PhD mean?

It covers tuition and living expenses through scholarships or assistantships, alleviating financial burdens.

Are online PhD programs often fully funded?

Rarely, as most require tuition. Some offer financial aid or stipends.

Which countries provide free or nearly free PhD programs?

Countries like Germany, Norway, and Sweden often provide tuition-free PhD programs.

What’s a common source of funding for PhD students in the U.S.?

Assistantships, providing stipends in exchange for teaching or research work.

Why avoid unfunded PhD programs?

Unfunded programs may indicate limited resources or lack of departmental support.

free phd degree online

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

Thank you for visiting Academia Insider.

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1-Year PhD Programs Online [2025 Guide]

Best online colleges & universities 2025, accelerated bachelor's degree online, 20 most useless college degrees 2025, online colleges that provide free laptops, easiest phd and shortest doctoral programs online 2025, online colleges that pay you to attend in 2025.

Explore a range of online doctoral programs, including Ph.D. degrees, that offer accelerated paths, reduced residency requirements, and flexible online learning options.

Find Your PhD Program in 5 Minutes or Less

Many schools have rolling admissions, which means you can start an online program in a few weeks!

Many degree programs fall under the title of doctorate, including Doctor of Philosophy degrees or Ph.D.

These Ph.D. degree programs are available in a variety of subjects and are intended to help students understand their specialty in the abstract and as a school of thought and theory rather than strictly as a practice.

Institutions that offer the best programs typically have exceptional funding, prestigious reputations, top-of-the-line research facilities, and abundant academic resources.

When selecting one of the shortest online doctoral programs or easiest online Ph.D. programs, you can access more info by visiting the links provided in each school description to ensure that you find the best program for you!

The easiest isn't always the shortest nor the shortest the easiest.

Doctorate Degree vs PhD

15-18 month doctorate programs without dissertation, shortest ph.d. programs online and on-campus, easiest ph.d. programs online & on-campus, easiest online ph.d. programs & online doctoral programs, easiest ph.d. to get (traditional), free ph.d. programs online (fully funded).

  • Best Ph.D. Programs in the U.S.
  • Guide to Online Doctorate Degrees
  • How Long Does it Take to Get a PhD
  • Regions with the Highest Doctorates Awarded in 2023
  • Ph.D. programs focus more on the theoretical and abstract aspects of their respective fields of study to understand it as a school of thought rather than just a practical application.
  • Usual doctorate programs tend to be more practical in their study and focus on the application of knowledge rather than understanding more abstract perspectives.
  • Ph.D. degrees are often offered in the same fields that have standard doctoral degrees available usually offered in fields such as engineering, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
  • Doctorate programs are made up of advanced coursework, research projects, or thesis work almost strictly for practical application.
  • Ph.D. and Doctorate degrees can often achieve the same ends and should be considered more or less equal in weight.

Find your match.

Some doctorate programs advertise "no dissertation" options, but this isn't always accurate.

Potential 15-18 month online doctorate programs without dissertation:

  • Health Care Administration
  • Doctor of Philosophy
  • Human Resource Education
  • Organizational Leadership
  • Online Doctor of Education (EdD)

Note: Online programs vary in length and requirements. Some may take longer or still require dissertations.

When considering these programs:

  • Verify current requirements, as they may change
  • Check resource guides and school rankings
  • Inquire about financial aid options

Remember to thoroughly research any program before committing. Here's a list of top 15-18 month online Ph.D. programs without dissertation requirements to explore.

Further Reading: 1-Year PhD Programs Online

Program: Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Credits: 33-37

Courses: 10

Key Features: Fully online, 7-week accelerated courses, no dissertation required

Boston University offers a Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree program that can be completed in 18 months. Students may concentrate on various areas and can choose what else they would prefer to learn to complete their credit requirements.

This is a fully online degree program that accelerates each semester's worth of class to take only seven weeks to complete with new courses starting every September, January, and May. The program is available to doctoral students who have completed an accredited occupational therapy program. There are foundation courses, which include evidence-based practice and health care management, but no dissertation is necessary whereas a doctoral project is still required.

Program: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Credits: 33

Key Features: Online program, no GMAT/GRE required, no clinical hours

The Maryville University of St. Louis offers a Doctor of Nursing (DNP) program that is available online. The DNP program requires students to complete a total of 33 credit hours, including 18 to 20 months for completion. Many students in the online DNP program are working as nurses in the field, and this affords them a flexible program that allows many students to achieve their academic goals while active in the healthcare industry.

This course is an online program that does not require a GMAT or GRE. It may have a waiting list, but unlike other programs, it does not require clinical hours. The Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership is an online program that offers personal coaching throughout the process. It is a cohort learning method with online education, and students might need a bit more time to complete it.

Programs: Various online doctoral degrees

Offerings: Higher Education Leadership, Educational Leadership, Nursing Practice, Health Administration, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy

Key Features: Live online classes, self-paced learning, virtual labs and simulations

Maryville University offers online doctoral degrees tailored for working professionals. Programs available fully online include Doctorates in Higher Education Leadership, Educational Leadership, Nursing Practice, Health Administration, Physical Therapy, and Occupational Therapy. The EdD programs prepare graduates for leadership and faculty roles in education. The DNP equips nurses for advanced clinical and executive practice.

Health Administration focuses on healthcare organizational development, quality, and finance. Licensed PTs and OTs can pursue clinical doctorates while working. Courses blend live online classes and self-paced learning. Programs leverage cutting-edge virtual labs and simulations. With a relevant master's degree, students can earn an accredited doctorate from Maryville University online to advance their careers.

24 Month Doctorate Programs

Program: Transitional Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy

Key Features: Fully online, part-time program, workplace application credits

One option is to earn an online Ph.D. in Nursing, while another option is to earn their Medical Degree at the same time as their online Master of Business Administration , but the Transitional Doctoral Program in Physical therapy may be earned in 24 months fully online. This part-time program provides online learning courses to help licensed physical therapists enhance their skills and gain access to higher career options. Some credits can be earned through workplace applications.

Offerings: EdD tracks in Organizational Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, K-12 Leadership, plus psychology, nursing, business, and more

Key Features: Asynchronous and live virtual classes, personalized faculty support, robust digital resources

Grand Canyon University offers over a dozen online doctoral degrees tailored for working professionals. GCU provides online EdD tracks in Organizational Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, and K-12 Leadership. Other doctorates cover psychology, nursing, business, and more. Programs blend asynchronous and live virtual classes focused on applying concepts. Specialized tracks allow customization.

Online students get personalized faculty support and access to robust digital resources. Within 2 years (or less), learners complete coursework, residencies, exams, and a dissertation to earn an accredited doctoral degree from GCU. With flexible and practical curricula, GCU enables busy professionals to obtain doctorates fully online and further their careers.

Program: Doctor of Education

Credits: 54

Key Features: Fully online, 8-week courses, no dissertation required

Liberty University offers a Doctor of Education degree program that can be completed fully online. The minimum time to earn the degree is about 30 months for completion of all 54 credits. The courses are each 8 weeks long and no dissertation is required. The Doctor of Education degree program provides a curriculum that focuses on developing innovative programs, as well as a capstone project.

Offerings: School Improvement, Nursing Education, Professional Counseling and Supervision, Higher Education Administration

Key Features: Synchronous evening classes, self-paced learning, experiential projects

The University of West Georgia offers several online doctoral degree options for working professionals seeking advanced training. UWG provides online doctorates in School Improvement, Nursing Education, Professional Counseling and Supervision, and Higher Education Administration. The EdD programs focus on data-driven leadership strategies and developing administrative expertise.

The DNP prepares nurses to improve care systems and patient outcomes. Coursework blends synchronous evening classes and self-paced learning for flexibility. Experiential projects allow application to careers. With a relevant master's degree, students can earn an accredited doctorate fully online from UWG to advance as leaders in their field.

Obtaining a Ph.D. can be a long-term commitment and many doctoral programs can take over five years to complete. To help busy working professionals looking to jumpstart their careers and those looking to begin their careers at a high level, this list serves as a simple reference guide, compiling information on some of the shortest doctoral programs in the country.

These online degree programs operate in full-time, part-time, fully online, or hybrid formats.

  • Baylor University - online EdD in Learning and Organizational Change, 54 credits, 36 months
  • Maryville University - online Doctor of Nursing Practice (Online DNP), 20 months, no GRE or no GMAT requirement
  • University of Dayton - online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership for Organizations, 36 months, 60 credits
  • Capella University - online Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision, 0 max transfer credits, 60 credits, CACREP accredited
  • Franklin University - online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), 58 credit hours, transfer up to 24 hours of previously earned credit, 36 months + 1 year for dissertation
  • Walden University - online Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology, up to 53 credits, fast-track option, earn MPhil at the same time
  • Frontier Nursing University - online Doctor of Nursing Practice, MSN with DNP, 675 clinical hours for MSN plus 360 additional for DNP
  • Boston University - Online Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy, PP-OTD, 33-37 credits
  • University of Florida - online MSN to DNP, 35 credits, five semesters
  • Gwynedd Mercy University - Accelerated Executive Doctorate of Education ABD (All But Dissertation) Completion Program, online EdD , 27 credit hours, 18 months
  • Duquesne University - Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), 35 credit hours
  • The College of St. Scholastica - Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy, online tDPT, 16 credits
  • Liberty Univesity - Doctor of Ministry, online DMin, 30 credit hours, 24 months
  • University of Florida - Doctor of Nursing Practice, MSN to DNP, 35 credits, 5 semesters
  • University of North Dakota - Post-Master's Doctor of Nursing Practice, online DNP, 36 credit hours, 5 semesters
  • Seton Hall University - Doctor of Nursing Practice, online DNP, 31+ credits for post-MSN students, 73-79 credits for post-BSN students
  • Regis University - Doctor of Nursing Practice, online DNP , 28-33 credit hours, 8-week terms
  • Georgia State University - Curriculum and Instruction EdD, Educational Leadership EdD, on-campus EdD, 54 credit hours
  • Bowling Green State University   - Technology Management, web-based Ph.D., 66 credit hours
  • Hampton University - Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management, online Ph.D., 60 credit hours
  • Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Safety Sciences, online Ph.D., 54 credit hours
  • East Carolina University   - Doctor of Nursing Practice, hybrid online DNP

To be sure, at the Ph.D. level, no program could be considered "easy," but there are certain programs designed to be "easier" than others. Generally, education, humanities, and the social sciences are considered the easiest fields in which to pursue degrees.

With that in mind, our list of the easiest Ph.D. programs includes schools and programs that offer significantly reduced residency requirements, accelerated courses, credit transfers, and integrated dissertation colloquia.

The rankings below display schools with accreditation from at least one of the six regional accrediting agencies , and all offer at least one virtual Ph.D. degree. Accredited online Ph.D. programs are also organized according to the U.S. News and World Report and Forbes Magazine rankings.

  • WALDEN UNIVERSITY - 156 Online Doctoral Programs
  • REGENT UNIVERSITY - 81 online doctorate degrees, 6 Ph.D. programs online
  • HAMPTON UNIVERSITY - 5 online doctoral degree programs
  • UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA - 8 online doctoral degree programs
  • UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI - 4 online doctorate programs
  • COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY - 3 online Ph.D. programs, 1 online doctoral program
  • UNIVERSITY OF NORTH DAKOTA - 12 online Ph.D. programs, 3 online doctoral programs
  • NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY -  10 online doctorate programs, 8 online Ph.D. programs
  • LIBERTY UNIVERSITY -  19 online Ph.D. programs, 16 online doctorate programs

The easiest doctorate degree can vary depending on your interests, skills, and strengths. However, here is a list of doctorate degrees that are mentioned as potentially less difficult to obtain.

Focus: Business development, design, methods, tools, and professional ethics

Career Path: Advanced positions in business

Specializations: Human behavior, social psychology, counseling supervision, specific therapy approaches

Career Path: Advanced opportunities in healthcare and social services

Skills Developed: Research skills, data analysis in criminal justice

Career Paths: Emergency management, forensic departments, information security sectors

Focus: Enhancing educational research skills, preparing for leadership roles

Career Paths: Administrative positions in universities, professional departments, elementary and secondary schools

Topics Covered: Policies, ethics, group management, hospital administration, advanced patient care

Career Path: Leadership roles in the business aspect of the medical industry

Focus: Policies, legislation, rights, ethics, and protocols for serving within human services organizations

Career Path: Leadership positions in organizations helping underserved populations

Areas Covered: Financial management, system management, conflict management, human resources management

Application: Practical skills applicable to various industry settings

Skills Developed: Managerial and strategic planning skills for administrative roles

Coursework: Ethics of management, public policy, strategic planning, performance management, employee evaluation, economics of administration

Focus: Advanced training and research skills for the healthcare industry

Emphasis: Leadership and management roles, innovative thinking, communication mastery

Focus: Theory, ethics, research, and practice in public service programs

Skills Developed: Analyzing and proposing policies to improve communities and societies

Combination: Research skills with professional practice

Career Paths: Addictions counselors, applied researchers, professional consultants, clinical psychologists

Focus: Divine and spiritual traditions through academics, research, and religious studies

Career Paths: Professors, social service managers, private school teachers, directors of religious education

Please note that the difficulty of a doctorate degree can vary depending on individual circumstances, personal strengths, and the specific requirements of each program. It's important to thoroughly research and consider your interests, skills, and career goals before deciding on a doctorate program.

Online Doctorate Programs That Might Interest You

Many schools have rolling admissions, which means you can start a program in a few weeks!

Online Ph.D. programs can boost career opportunities and earnings, but costs can be prohibitive. Many financial support options exist for doctoral students. This article highlights financially supportive U.S. Ph.D. programs, including potentially free options.

Key points about " free " Ph.D. programs:

  • "Free" typically means full financial support, not absence of tuition fees.
  • Be cautious of programs claiming no tuition charges.
  • Common funding sources: fellowships, assistantships, grants, and scholarships.

Fully-funded Ph.D. programs:

  • Often advertised as "free" doctoral programs
  • Usually offer assistantships or fellowships
  • Assistantships: Work as teaching or research assistants
  • Fellowships: Awards for pursuing academic interests
  • May include benefits like health insurance, living stipends, and tuition waivers
  • Highly competitive with limited availability

Students should research eligibility criteria early and submit strong applications for these opportunities.

According to Best-Universities.net .

  • Brown University Fully-funded Ph.D. program in computer science
  • University of Houston-Downtown Full scholarship program for online doctorate
  • Devry University Comprehensive scholarship program for online degrees
  • University of Maryland-Baltimore County Full scholarship program for online undergraduate and graduate degrees
  • Wilson Community College Full scholarship program for community college students
  • University of Leeds Up to 30 fully-funded online Ph.D. programs
  • University of the Witwatersrand Comprehensive scholarship program for online bachelor's or master's degrees
  • The University of Texas at Dallas Full scholarship program for online bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees
  • University of Strathclyde Full scholarship program for online undergraduate or master's degrees
  • Emory University Fully-funded online Ph.D. program in economics
  • New York University Fully-funded Ph.D. program in childhood education
  • University of Pennsylvania Fully-funded online Ph.D. program in educational leadership and policy

If you're not looking for an accelerated program , the list below displays some of the best traditional Ph.D. programs in the country, according to Study.com.

How Long Does it Take to Get a PhD?

  • The length of a Ph.D. program can vary, but it typically takes 3 to 6 years to complete.
  • A Ph.D. program typically takes 5 to 6 years in the United States.
  • A Ph.D. program typically takes 3 to 4 years in the UK and many other European countries.
  • The actual length of a Ph.D. program can be influenced by many factors, including the nature of the research, the student's progress, the advisor's availability, and funding considerations.
  • Some students may finish in less time, while others may take longer.
  • Part-time Ph.D. programs are also available, which can take longer to complete.

Here is a table summarizing the length of Ph.D. programs in different countries:

Frequently Asked Questions about Doctoral Programs

A Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) is typically research-oriented and focuses on contributing new knowledge to a field through original research. It's often pursued by those interested in academia or research careers.

A professional doctorate (e.g., Ed.D., D.B.A., Psy.D.) is more practice-oriented and focuses on applying existing knowledge to solve real-world problems in a specific profession. It's often pursued by those looking to advance in their professional careers.

The duration can vary, but typically:

  • In the U.S., Ph.D. programs usually take 5-6 years to complete.
  • In the UK and many European countries, it's often 3-4 years.
  • Part-time programs can take 6-8 years or more.

The actual time can depend on factors like research progress, funding, and individual circumstances.

Common requirements include:

  • A master's degree (some programs accept exceptional students with only a bachelor's)
  • High GPA (often 3.0 or higher)
  • GRE or GMAT scores (some programs are waiving this requirement)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose or research proposal
  • CV or resume
  • Writing sample (for some programs)

Specific requirements can vary by program and institution.

Yes, it's possible to work while pursuing a doctoral degree, especially with the increasing availability of part-time and online programs. However, balancing work and study can be challenging due to the intensive nature of doctoral research.

Many full-time Ph.D. students work as teaching or research assistants within their university. Some programs, especially professional doctorates, are designed for working professionals and offer more flexible schedules.

Funding options can include:

  • Fellowships and scholarships
  • Teaching or research assistantships
  • Grants (from the university, government, or private organizations)
  • Employer tuition assistance
  • Federal student loans
  • Work-study programs

Many Ph.D. programs offer full funding packages to their students, which may include tuition waivers and stipends.

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15 Great Grad Programs That Offer Free Tuition

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: November 25, 2024 , Reading time: 21 minutes

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Find your perfect college degree

In this article, we will be covering...

Data Points

  • Students say they enroll in a graduate program * to improve their career prospects (35%), qualify in or advance in their chosen career (28%), and stay competitive in their field (11%).
  • The average debt ** among master’s degree holders is $83,651. Meanwhile, PhD holders have an average debt of $125,276.
  • Master’s-level employment is projected to grow *** by almost 17% from 2016 to 2026, faster than the 7% percent average projected for all other occupations.

Who doesn’t love the idea of getting something for free? It’s even better when what’s free is something as expensive as graduate school tuition.

We’ve put together a list of the schools, colleges, and universities across the United States that offer free tuition for their graduate programs. But first, let’s delve into a short discussion of why free tuition matters and what it entails.

free phd degree online

It’s common for many educational institutions across the United States to offer some form of financial assistance for their students; however, most of these are intended for students taking bachelor’s degrees. Financial support and low-cost or free tuition are harder to come by among graduate schools.

Still, there’s no need to fret – read on to find out the schools in the United States (in no particular order) that offer great graduate programs that won’t leave you saddled with student debt long after graduation.

Audio Summary of this article:

Graduate studies are often pursued by students who seek to broaden their knowledge of a specific field and discover new concepts related to it. Whatever drives you to pursue a free graduate program will reward you with qualifications and more opportunities to land a stable career.

While graduate studies can be expensive, you can actually acquire this higher education for free! You can apply for financial aid and scholarships. Better yet, ask about and qualify for funding arrangements in your graduate program of choice to pay for little to no tuition and fees!

Great Grad Programs That Offer Free Tuition - Reasons Why Students Enroll in Grad Programs

15 Tuition-Free Grad Programs

University of the people.

Pasadena, California (office)

Not all people who want to get into graduate school have the time and luxury to do full-time, on-campus programs. Many are juggling work and family duties simultaneously. 

If you are looking for a graduate school that has both flexibility and tuition-free as its strongest points, then the University of the People (UoPeople) should be at the top of your list.

The University holds the impressive distinction of being the first-ever fully online American university to provide free tuition fees to all of its students. It’s one of the rare types of schools that offer free tuition without conditions like annual income or performance.

Students only need to pay $60 upfront upon application. At the end of every course, students pay an assessment fee, as follows: 

  • Master of Education (MEd) $350 per course
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) $400 per course 

Scholarships and grants can cover the minimal fees for those with strictly limited financial capacity. This is possible thanks to the University of the People’s many partnerships and donors from companies and institutions.

Despite its affordability, the University of the People has maintained the quality of its education. It is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) .

At the same time, its President’s Council, Advisory Boards, and Deans all come from prestigious academic institutions all over the world, such as New York University, the Academy of Paris, and UC Berkeley.

Application and enrollment to the UoPeople is done online, ensuring accessibility to applicants all over the country.

Graduate Programs with Free Tuition:

  • MBA in Management Degree
  • MEd in Advanced Teaching Degree

Weill Cornell Medical College

New York City

Many students who dream of becoming doctors must face the reality that medical school is among the most expensive degrees. According to the Data Education Initiative, the average cost of medical school is $59,605 per year . 

Fortunately, more medical schools and colleges are working towards providing affordable – or even downright free – medical programs. Foremost of them is the Weill Cornell Medical College in New York. The college has been serving the community for more than five decades.

Weill Cornell awards substantial financial aid to its graduate program students based on demonstrated financial need. Students are evaluated based on their capacity to pay for tuition. Factors considered in the evaluation include their family income and assets. 

Weill Cornell deducts the amount that the student is capable of paying (based on their status) from the program’s total cost of attendance. The remaining amount is considered financial need and covered by the College. The financial aid covers tuition and fees as well as miscellaneous expenses, such as health insurance and housing.

Also, Weill Cornell provides sizable annual stipends for its Ph.D. students for living expenses. Scholarships that cover the full tuition and other fees are also awarded. Comprehensive health insurance coverage and allowances for travel and lodging for official events are provided, too. 

The broad scope of financial support provided by the Weill Cornell Medical College earns them a well-deserved spot on our list.

  • MD (Medical Doctor) Program
  • PhD in Biochemistry and Structural Biology
  • PhD in Cell and Developmental Biology
  • PhD in Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis
  • PhD in Molecular Biology
  • PhD in Neuroscience
  • PhD/MBA Dual Degree Program
  • PhD in Pharmacology
  • PhD in Physiology, Biophysics, and Systems Biology

Curtis Institute of Music

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

If you want graduate education in music but hesitate about the cost, consider the Curtis Institute of Music.  The prestigious school offers a generous all-scholarship policy that covers the complete cost of tuition . 

Both undergraduate and graduate students qualify for the full-tuition scholarship regardless of their financial need. The scholarship for graduate students is worth $67,502 for the 2025-2026 academic year. 

But the Curtis Institute’s commitment to accessibility doesn’t stop there. The school also provides: 

  • Financial assistance for living expenses
  • Student employment (i.e., work-study)
  • Grants for housing and food
  • Loan programs 
  • Government-funded financial assistance

They also offer programs that can be tuition-free. 

Curtis’s small student population is among the reasons for the sustainability of their all-scholarship policy. There are only about 175 students currently enrolled in their programs. This also allows for smaller class sizes and more hands-on instruction and opportunities for every student.

The Curtis Institute is truly a one-of-a-kind school that anyone with a musical talent would love to be a part of.

  • Post-Baccalaureate Diploma
  • Master of Music

New York University Grossman School of Medicine

New York, New York

The New York University (NYU) Grossman School of Medicine also offers tuition-free medical education. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the full-tuition coverage is worth $64,250 per year . The full-tuition scholarship also includes coverage for the $5,781 per year student health insurance. 

In total, students receive scholarships up to $280,124 during their four-year medical education. This translates to more accessibility to students from low-income households.

The Grossman School of Medicine does not require proof of financial need or academic merit for a student to qualify. Eligible students, however, must meet the conditions set in the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy.

Students can apply for the following aid to cover their other expenses: 

  • Institutional and federal loans
  • Independent scholarships
  • Work-study 

The Grossman School of Medicine is an institution known for its academic excellence. Admission is on a highly selective basis. According to the U.S. News & World Report, it’s among the top five Best Graduate Schools in the country.

Graduate Program with Free Tuition:

Harvard University

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Harvard University and its Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) offers accessible education for students in its programs. Eligible graduate students can enjoy low-cost or free-tuition education, thanks to generous financial aid packages. 

But we must emphasize that only the PhD programs offer free-tuition education. Students in master’s degree programs must consult directly with their financial aid office to develop their personalized aid package. 

The GSAS offers a tiered tuition structure, too.  In it, the cost of attendance lowers after every year completed by the student. This means a more affordable education through the years despite college inflation. 

Harvard’s financial aid program guarantees funding including tuition grants and stipends for the first five years. All doctoral degree (i.e., PhD) students qualify for the guaranteed funding. Assistantships and fellowships as well as research support are also available. 

  • PhD in Applied Mathematics
  • PhD in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Urban Planning
  • PhD in Business Administration
  • PhD in Chemical Physics
  • PhD in Computer Science
  • PhD in Engineering and Applied Sciences
  • PhD in Film and Visual Studies
  • PhD in Linguistics
  • PhD in Political Science
  • PhD in Psychology …and more!

Yale University

New Haven, Connecticut

Yale University, an Ivy League institution, also offers generous financial aid opportunities for its graduate students. Indeed, the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) offers PhD students the opportunity for tuition-free education. As a result, most PhD students earn their degrees without incurring student loans. 

PhD students can receive more than $500,000 in financial aid including fellowships, stipends, and health insurance. Their financial aid package for the  2024-2025 academic year includes: 

  • Full-tuition fellowship worth $49,500 
  • Stipend for 12 months worth at least $49,538 (total) 
  • Comprehensive health insurance that covers hospitalization and specialty care, among other benefits. Even their children and legal spouses are covered in certain cases 
  • Family support subsidy for graduate students with minor children (i.e., 17 years old and younger) 

Graduate students also have access to a Dean’s Emergency Fund for unexpected emergency expenses. Advanced PhD students can apply for coverage of their Continuing Registration Fee, too. 

  • PhD in Anthropology
  • PhD in Applied Physics
  • PhD in Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  • PhD in Computer Sciences
  • PhD in Economics
  • PhD in Electrical Engineering
  • PhD in Management
  • PhD in Nursing
  • PhD in Public Health … and more!

Brown University

Providence, Rhode Island

Brown University, also an Ivy League institution, is known for its selective admission and emphasis on academic excellence. But the cost of attendance can be prohibitive with doctoral programs charging nearly $75,000 per academic year in tuition and fees alone. 

But don’t despair either because Brown University offers its PhD students with guaranteed funding support for five years. The guaranteed support includes:

  • Tuition remission 
  • Stipend 
  • Health and dental insurance subsidy 
  • Coverage for health services gee 

Note that doctoral students pursuing degrees in humanities and social sciences receive six years of guaranteed support. 

PhD students also earn extra money for their studies through: 

  • Assistantships 
  • Fellowships 
  • Proctorships 

Aside from these internal offerings, students who require additional coverage and funding can also apply for external funding. In case of doctoral students in their sixth year, it’s still possible to receive funding through the Dissertation Completion Proposal (DCP) initiative. Brown University also covers student’s travel expenses incurred for research.

  • PhD in American Studies
  • PhD in Archaeology and the Ancient World
  • PhD in Behavioral and Social Health Sciences
  • PhD in Brain Science
  • PhD in Comparative Literature
  • PhD in Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences
  • PhD in Egyptology and Assyriology
  • PhD in History of Art and Architecture
  • PhD in Modern Culture and Media
  • PhD in Musicology and Ethnomusicology …and more!

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

UNC Chapel Hill doesn’t have exactly zero tuition options. Still, it makes up for it with the many financing options and stipends for graduate students . It’s also located in one of the country’s most affordable college towns. 

These are the funding options available for students in graduate programs: 

  • Fellowship programs, such as the Royster Society of Fellows and Weiss Urban Livability Fellowship Program
  • Fellowships and assistantships for master’s and doctoral degree students 
  • Off-Campus Dissertation Research Fellowship
  • Dissertation Completion Fellowship
  • Bridge Beyond Carolina program
  • Summer Research Fellowship
  • External fellowships, such as the Dolores Z. Liebmann Fellowship and DAAD Grants for Study and Research in Germany

The fellowships and assistantships for doctoral students include: 

  • Stipend ($22,000 for the current academic year but it can change every year) 
  • Full campus-based tuition and fees 
  • Health insurance 
  • Assistantship position may be included 

Eligible students receive the funding for a single nine-month academic year. 

  • PhD in Materials Science
  • Master’s / PhD in Art History
  • PhD in Microbiology and Immunology
  • Master’s / Doctor of Philosophy in City and Regional Planning
  • PhD in Communication Studies
  • Master’s / PhD in Ecology
  • Master’s / PhD in Social Work …and more!

Duke University

Durham, North Carolina

If you’re looking for a prestigious university that offers exceptional financial support packages, check out Duke University’s The Graduate School. Doctorate students are eligible for its guaranteed funding package for five years. 

The package includes the following:  

  • A 12-month stipend for their first five years of study. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the stipend was $40,000 for each student. 
  • Tuition coverage either by The Graduate School or external scholarships including fellowships. 
  • Mandatory fees are covered by The Graduate School. 
  • Full premiums for medical and dental insurance are covered by The Graduate School, too, for six years. 

Plus, PhD programs have other forms of financial support for areas not covered by the guaranteed funding. Doctoral students can apply for: 

  • Assistantships in teaching and research 
  • Appointments in training programs

For master’s degree takers, however, Duke University only offers federal financial aid in general. Still, students can inquire with their specific department to check other financial support packages that are specific to their degree program.

Duke also has a Medical Expense / Financial Hardship Degree Program. This is intended to support PhD students who are struggling to pay their tuition. Eligible students can get up to $5,000 in grants; higher coverage must have the Dean’s approval. 

  • PhD in Art, Art History and Visual Studies
  • PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology
  • PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering
  • PhD in Evolutionary Anthropology
  • PhD in Integrated Toxicology and Environmental Health
  • PhD in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science
  • PhD in Psychology and Neuroscience
  • PhD in Genetics and Genomics
  • PhD in Marine Science and Conservation
  • PhD in Computational Media, Arts and Cultures …and more!

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

MIT offers tuition-free education for families earning less than $90,000 a year. This is significant because full regular tuition for doctoral degree students is $30,995 per term (2024-2025). The tuition-free education is made possible through a loan, a part-time job, or both.

For master’s programs in the field of science and engineering, most expenses are paid for by: 

  • Research assistantships (RAs)
  • Teaching assistantships (TAs)
  • Traineeships 
  • Fellowships and scholarships 
  • On-campus employment 
  • Veterans benefits (e.g., Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill, Chapter 35 Survivor and Dependent Educational Assistance, Yellow Ribbon Benefits, and Chapter 31 Veteran Readiness and Employment) 

However, students at the Sloan School’s MBA programs pay the regular tuition.  But they can get their money back from management consulting and Wall Street firms. Some of these firms offer a “tuition-rebate” signing bonus. Most of the financial support is granted for merit, while others are provided for financial needs or a combination of both.

  • Master’s in Nuclear Science and Engineering
  • Master’s in Chemical Engineering
  • Master’s in Aeronautics and Astronautics
  • Master’s in Mechanical Engineering

Columbia University

Manhattan, New York City, New York

Columbia University offers world-class graduate education but it comes at a cost. Graduate students pay $2,584 per credit; exemptions apply. PhD tuition is $27,592 per Residence Unit (i.e., full-time registration per semester). 

But it’s also possible to enjoy significant discounts on tuition and fees through financial aid . Graduate students must explore these options: 

  • Federal and state financial aid including loans and work-study 
  • Work-study program offered by the university and its colleges 
  • Scholarships and fellowships, both internal and external 
  • Teaching and research assistantships 
  • Yellow Program benefits 
  • MA matching fund up to $300 
  • MA in East Asian Languages and Cultures
  • MA in History and Literature
  • MA in Human Rights Studies
  • MA in Medieval and Renaissance Studies
  • MA in Political Science
  • MA in Russian Translation
  • MA in Slavic Languages
  • MA in Sociology

Texas A&M University

College Station, Texas

TAMU has a comprehensive list of grants, fellowships, and scholarships for those pursuing their master’s degrees. With effective financial aid planning, you can earn a graduate degree for little to no tuition payments made. 

While TAMU has affordable tuition and fees, financial aid is a must to keep your costs low. At the Bush School of Government, for example, a graduate student can pay $5,170.01 per term in tuition and mandatory fees (resident). Nonresidents pay up to  $9,953.60 per term. 

Many of these grants are merit-based, but some consider the student’s needs. Some of the notable grants include: 

  • Federal TEACH Grant
  • Texas Aggie Graduate Grant (TAGG)
  • Texas Public Education Grant (TPEG)

Students can also avail of graduate assistantships.

If they want to get financial assistance without rendering service, then applying for graduate fellowships is the best way to go . The fellowship packages vary from $1,000 to over $30,000. Some even include funds for insurance, tuition, and fees.

  • Master of Public Service and Administration
  • Master of Agribusiness
  • Master of Science in Agricultural Economics
  • Master of Engineering
  • Master of Science in Safety Engineering
  • Master of Science in Computer Science
  • Master of Science in Computer Engineering
  • Master of Biomedical Sciences (BIMS)
  • Master of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences
  • Master of Oral Biology

Stanford University

Stanford, California

Stanford University may not be an Ivy League university but it’s also among the world’s best universities. Graduate tuition and fees reflect its prestigious status, too.  

Students pursuing their master’s and doctoral degrees pay $13,240 per quarter in tuition (8-10 units; 2024-2025). But many graduate students pay higher tuition, too, such as MBA students charged $27,485 per quarter. Indeed, effective financial management planning is vital to keep your costs as low as possible. 

Fortunately, graduate students can avail of free tuition through various financial support including: 

  • Fellowships that can provide tuition support and stipends 
  • External scholarships

Students are not expected to render service or repay the funding. Tuition fellowships at Stanford for master’s students are usually merit-based, awarded along with the offer of admission. There are also need-based grants available. Many assistantship programs are also available.

Apart from the university-based fellowships, grants, and scholarships, there is also financial assistance from external fellowships. There is also a GSE Student Emergency Fund for graduate students who experience a financial emergency or unanticipated expenses.

  • Master’s Degree in Education Data Science
  • Master’s Degree in Policy, Organization, and Leadership Studies
  • Master’s Degree in International Comparative Education
  • Master’s Degree in Learning, Design, and Technology
  • Master’s Degree in Curriculum Teacher Education
  • Master’s Degree in Individually Designed Education
  • Master’s Degree in Education and Business Administration
  • Master’s Degree in Education/JD in Law

Princeton University

Princeton, New Jersey

Princeton University, a private Ivy League institution, offers world-class education in its graduate programs, too. But the tuition and fees are prohibitive for many interested individuals, especially low-income families.  

Graduate tuition and fees is $62,400 for the 2024-2025 academic year. All graduate students must pay the $3,510 per year Student Health Plan Fee, too. Total cost of attendance, which includes direct and indirect costs, can be as high as $103,260 every year. 

Fortunately, Princeton offers a generous financial aid program that enables students to afford its education. For one thing, PhD students can apply for a guaranteed full first-year fellowship that covers: 

  • Tuition 
  • Student Health Plan 
  • Base stipend for living expenses 

For another thing, PhD students in their second year and beyond can combine funding options including: 

  • Internal fellowships 
  • Research and teaching assistantships offered by the university 
  • External fellowships 

Specific examples include first-year students of the Humanities and Social Sciences Division receive a University Fellowship. Students receive full tuition coverage and a 12-month stipend.  First-year graduate students in the Natural Sciences and Urban Planning and Engineering Division are also eligible. 

G raduate Programs with Free Tuition:

  • Master’s Degree in American Studies
  • Master’s Degree in Urban Policy
  • Master’s Degree in Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy (STEP)
  • Master’s Degree in Gender and Sexuality Studies
  • Master’s Degree in Latin American Studies
  • Master’s Degree in African-American Studies
  • Master’s Degree in Statistics and Machine Learning
  • Master’s Degree in Environmental Studies
  • Master’s Degree in Materials Science

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, New Hampshire

SNHU, a private nonprofit university, encourages its current and prospective students to file their current FAFSA for financial aid purposes.  Besides federal and state financial aid, students can also apply for these financial aid options :  

  • Credit transfers
  • Military and veteran discounts
  • Employer tuition assistance
  • Grants and scholarships

These financial aid options are vital in reducing cost of attendance for graduate students. Master’s degree students can pay up to $11,325 per academic year (i.e., 15 credits). Doctoral students pay between $680 and $1,025 per credit for their courses (i.e., without financial aid). 

  • MS in Accounting
  • MS in Applied Economics
  • MS in Business Analytics
  • MS in Communication
  • MS in Criminal Justice
  • MS in Cyber Security
  • MA in English
  • MS in Finance
  • MA in History
  • MS in Management
  • MS in Marketing
  • MS in Psychology

Fees are Soaring, and Students are Drowning (in Debt)

Fees are Soaring, and Students are Drowning (in Debt)

Colleges and universities inevitably raise their tuition rates and fees yearly as college costs continue to increase . For graduate programs in public schools, based on the academic year 2024-2025, the average tuition for State residents is $11,417 and $20,752 for out-of-state students. For private grad school programs, the tuition is $19,616 .

In turn, a college education is becoming more of a privilege. Even graduate school attendees, who mostly already have jobs that can support them, can still struggle to afford the tuition fees.

Thus, many student hopefuls find their choices limited significantly by how much they can afford unless they take on student debt. And many of them do.

At the end of 2023, figures show that roughly 43.5 million people in the United States have student debt that they still need to pay off. So now more than ever, students are turning to schools with free or subsidized tuition for their graduate programs.

What Does Free Tuition Mean Exactly?

Free tuition doesn’t always mean that you don’t have to spend a single penny for graduate school, though a couple of the schools on our list commit to providing completely free education, except for some small fees.

Free tuition can be conditional (e.g., based on a student’s family income or consistent performance); it can also be in the form of scholarships , fellowships, grants, or tuition work programs that need to be applied for first.

Some graduate schools provide substantial stipends, allowances, and subsidies for travel, housing, and health insurance. All these translate to substantially reduced tuition and nearly 100% free tuition!

The graduate schools we’ve selected provide a combination of one or more of these types of financial support.

Great Grad Programs That Offer Free Tuition - Masters vs PhD Debt

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of pursuing graduate studies.

Setting yourself apart from others can open better opportunities . Your competitive edge comes from your expert knowledge and skills and your extensive network. Both boosts your career advancement opportunities. 

How challenging is it to complete a graduate program?

Like any academic pursuit, earning a graduate degree has its share of challenges. You must make time commitments, be motivated and disciplined, and develop your research and writing skills. If you’re concerned about flexibility and accessibility, consider online graduate degree programs .  As for affordability, explore your financial aid options.

Are universities that offer free graduate programs able to provide high-quality education?

Yes, of course. Accredited public and private colleges offer tuition-free graduate programs, as the list above shows.

Great Grad Programs That Offer Free Tuition - Masters Level Employment Growth Rate

Key Takeaways

Regardless of your motivation and reason, your decision to pursue graduate school will impact your future career. Graduate degree holders are usually the “highly qualified personnel” regarded as valuable assets in any work setting.

If you are strapped for cash and unable to afford the skyrocketing graduate tuition and fees but have what it takes to earn your master’s or doctoral degree, navigate free graduate degree programs offered by some of the country’s most prestigious schools!

Here are additional articles to help you navigate your way through grad school:

  • FREE ONLINE RESOURCES FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS
  • THE MOST IN-DEMAND MASTER’S DEGREES
  • FREE GRADUATE COURSES YOU CAN TAKE ONLINE

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We’re certain of one thing—your search for more information on picking the best graduate degree or school landed you here. Let our experts help guide your through the decision making process with thoughtful content written by experts.

30 Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs

These fully funded Ph.D. programs are in fields like business, computer science, education and nursing.

free phd degree online

(Getty Images) |

Many Ph.D. programs are fully funded.

Students interested in graduate research in various fields, from public health and English to computer science and engineering, have numerous options for Ph.D. programs that offer full funding. These programs typically provide waived tuition and fees and an annual stipend. Some also offer health insurance and other benefits. Gaining admittance into these small cohorts can be highly competitive, and the programs can be time-consuming . Here are 30 fully funded Ph.D. programs at U.S. colleges and universities. Keep in mind this is not a comprehensive list – there are others out there.

A man handling papers from the Hulton Archives, wearing white gloves.

  • Ph.D. in anthropology at the University of Chicago

Anthropology Ph.D. students at the University of Chicago can receive funding for up to eight years of study, assuming they are in good standing at the university. During that time, they will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus health insurance and a living stipend – which equated to $33,000 for the 2022-2023 school year – and can apply for external fellowships.

Radcliffe Quad undergrad housing at Harvard University in Fall in Cambridge, MA, USA on November 2, 2013.

Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University (MA)

Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston offers a Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health that aims to provide students with expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend and health insurance for five years as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress. International students receive the same benefits. Current research in the school's laboratories involves diseases like AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria and tuberculosis.

MIT, a private university

(Dominick Reuter) |

  • Ph.D. in business at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Students enrolled in the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology can study a range of fields like organization studies, accounting and information technology. Those pursuing a Ph.D. will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus a monthly stipend of $4,267, capped at $51,204. They will also receive medical insurance, new laptops at the beginning of their first and fourth years of study and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.

Rice University

(Tommy Lavergne | Rice University)

Ph.D. in business at Rice University (TX)

At the Rice University Jones Graduate School of Business in Texas, students enjoy full financial assistance upon admission to the Ph.D. program. Aiming to prepare students to teach in fields like accounting, finance, organizational behavior and strategic management, the program provides students with a research or teaching assistantship. Students receive a tuition waiver and a $40,000 annual stipend contingent on making satisfactory academic progress and maintaining full-time student status.

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Office of Strategic Communication | University of Iowa

  • Ph.D. in business at the University of Iowa

The University of Iowa's Tippie College of Business offers Ph.D. degrees in fields such as accounting, economics, business analytics and marketing. The college says it provides full funding to "virtually all admitted students." This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments and comprehensive health insurance covered at 90%. Some departments offer funding for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships and paid time off for independent research.

Cornell University buildings viewed from McGraw Tower

Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University (NY)

According to Cornell University 's website, all students admitted to the chemical engineering Ph.D. program at the New York school receive a full tuition waiver, health insurance and a stipend. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.

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Chris Taggart | Columbia University

Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University (NY)

Students enrolled in Columbia University 's Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at the Teachers College in New York receive fully funded tuition and a $25,000 stipend annually for three years. The stipend also carries into a student's fourth year. These doctoral fellows "may be expected to serve" as graduate teaching or research assistants. Students typically complete the mentor-matched program, which includes a full-year internship, in five to seven years.

Unidentified individuals, and University Hall  on the campus of Brown University.

Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University (RI)

Brown University 's Ph.D. students in computer science have access to "full financial support while completing the degree," plus the option to take classes at nearby schools without incurring additional costs, according to the school's website. In fact, doctoral students in any program at the Rhode Island university are guaranteed five years of financial support, which includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees and a subsidy for health insurance.

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Georgetown University |

Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University (DC)

Georgetown University 's Ph.D. program in computer science provides scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition at the Washington, D.C., school and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years. Once enrolled in the program, students must complete the Apprenticeship in Teaching Program and ultimately write and defend a full research dissertation in a seminar open to the public.

Cherry trees in bloom in the campus of Washington university in springtime

Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University in St. Louis

Ph.D. students in the computer science or computer engineering program at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support and health insurance. According to the university's website: "As a doctoral candidate, you will also receive a generous stipend to cover living expenses and a new, high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as you continue to make satisfactory progress towards your degree." Doctoral students may also qualify for one of three fellowships.

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Jeff Miller | UW-Madison

  • Ph.D. in counseling psychology at the University of Wisconsin—Madison

Incoming Ph.D. students at the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin—Madison are guaranteed full funding for the duration of the time that they are expected on campus, according to the university's department of counseling psychology website. Doctoral students also receive a benefits package that includes health insurance. Funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships and/or traineeships.

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Emory University |

Ph.D. in economics at Emory University (GA)

Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding, according to the Georgia university's website. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student's cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.

New York City, New York, USA - September 13, 2013: Street view of New York University NYU in Greenwich Village Manhattan. There are people visible in this image.

  • Ph.D. in education at New York University

New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development offers more than 30 degree programs. Many can be pursued on campus or online. Ph.D. degrees are offered in areas like developmental psychology, educational leadership and childhood education. Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.

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L.A. Cicero, Stanford News Service |

Ph.D. in education at Stanford University (CA)

Stanford University's Graduate School of Education allows students numerous fellowship and assistantship opportunities at the California school, along with a "five-year funding guarantee that provides tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary, and covers the standard cost of attendance," the program website reads. At the Graduate School of Education, doctoral students can choose from a range of academic areas like curriculum studies and teacher education, and developmental and psychological sciences.

Two friends working in a public library, using a computer to find some specific books for their studies together.

  • Ph.D. in education at the University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.

Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA - November, 20 2010: The Computer Science and Engineering Building on the University of Michigan's North Campus has an eco-friendly design.

  • Ph.D. in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor

Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor can choose from numerous areas of specialization under umbrella categories like aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, macromolecular science and engineering, and robotics. All engineering doctoral students are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend and health insurance. The exact amount can vary, according to the program's website, and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.

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Boston University Photography |

  • Ph.D. in English at Boston University

Annually, doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, according to the university's website, but it's not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships and short-term research and travel grants.

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(Stephanie Diani) |

  • Ph.D. in English at the University of California—Los Angeles

Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at the University of California—Los Angeles are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes "a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support and up to four years of teaching assistantships," according to the school website. Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

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Jeff Watts |

Ph.D. in international relations at American University (DC)

American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean's Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant. Students also must "demonstrate competency in a modern foreign language" before graduating.

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Jonathan Cohen | Binghamton University

  • Ph.D. in management at Binghamton University—SUNY

All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years. This STEM-designated business doctoral degree prepares students for careers in academia and work in the public and private sectors, and has a student-faculty ratio of 1-to-1, according to the university's website.

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Duke University Communications |

Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University (NC)

Doctoral students at Duke University in North Carolina studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university's student medical insurance plan. The doctoral program aims to help students publish with a faculty adviser and develop research skills, with the opportunity to present research at professional conferences.

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Homewood Photography | JHU

Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University (MD)

The School of Nursing at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland provides most doctoral students with three fully funded years of study. Available financial aid includes graduate assistantships, targeted fellowships and nursing-specific funding. The university aims to "advance the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery" with the degree, its website reads. "By graduation, most Hopkins nurse scholars have been awarded grants that continue their research and set them well on their way to a successful career."

"The Lawn in late afternoon at the historic University of Virginia campus in Charlottesville, Virginia. The lawn was part of Thomas Jefferson's campus design."

  • Ph.D. in nursing at the University of Virginia

All students admitted to the University of Virginia 's Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant. With a heavy research focus, students can expect courses in qualitative, quantitative and historical research, and will have to submit a research proposal for peer review.

Yale University

Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University (CT)

At Yale University in Connecticut, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care. The program allows students to gain in-depth knowledge in a particular area of study. Every incoming Ph.D. student gets paired with a faculty adviser "whose area of expertise and active research most closely matches with the student’s scholarly interest," according to the school's website.

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University of Minnesota |

  • Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities

Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend and subsidized health insurance. Funding comes from some combination of teaching assistantships, traineeships, research assistantships and fellowships. Students in the program can specialize in areas like cognitive and brain sciences, industrial-organizational psychology and social psychology.

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Matt Cashore | University of Notre Dame

Ph.D. within the Romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame (IN)

University of Notre Dame doctoral students who focus on French and Francophone studies, Iberian and Latin American studies or Italian studies are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance. Anyone who completes the Ph.D. degree requirements at the Indiana university within five years will automatically receive a one-year postdoctoral fellowship via the university's 5+1 Program. Fellows will have a teaching load limited to one course per semester.

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Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College (PA)

Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College 's Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and "substantial stipends" toward living expenses. The Pennsylvania college's website says: "Consistent with our model, all Ph.D. students are funded equally, and do not compete for basic financial support during coursework." The program's cohorts typically include only three or four students each year. According to the college, it awarded the first Ph.D. degree in social work in the U.S. in 1920.

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Vanderbilt University |

Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University (TN)

Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at the Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee. This includes full tuition, a "competitive" monthly stipend and health insurance for up to four years. Students may also be nominated for additional honor scholarships and fellowships. Areas of focus within the Ph.D. program include high-incidence disabilities and early childhood education.

Chicago, Illinois in the United States. Entrance to Northwestern University - School of Law.

Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University (IL)

This interdisciplinary Ph.D. program at Northwestern University in Illinois combines coursework in humanities, social science and the visual arts. The program's students receive a five-year full-tuition scholarship plus an annual living stipend. Ph.D students enrolling at this program in fall 2022 will receive a living stipend of at least $36,960 during the 2023-2024 school year. Stipend amounts may change from year to year. Students can apply for subsidies to facilitate conference travel and summer language study.

COLLEGE PARK, MD - OCTOBER 4:   Testudo is pictured on the University of Maryland Campus. The University of Maryland announced a transformative investment of $219486,000 in the university on October 4. In a first of its kind announcement, university and government officials unveiled the investment in a celebration event for the campus community.

(Photo by Sarah L. Voisin | The Washington Post via Getty Images)

  • Ph.D. in women, gender and sexuality studies at University of Maryland

At the University of Maryland 's Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master's degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master's degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships. Since the program's establishment in 1999, the department has granted 36 Ph.Ds, according to UMD's website.

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Learn more about paying for graduate school.

Finding a fully funded program isn't the only option to offset the costs of graduate school. See these seven strategies to pay for graduate school to learn more. Check out the latest Best Graduate Schools rankings to see the country's top business, medicine and law programs – and more. For additional grad school tips, follow U.S. News Education on Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIn .

Locust Walk with students in fall, University of Pennsylvania, University City area, Philadelphia, PA, USA

Ph.D. programs that are fully funded

  • Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University
  • Ph.D. in business at Rice University
  • Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University
  • Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University
  • Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University
  • Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University
  • Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University—St. Louis
  • Ph.D. in economics at Emory University
  • Ph.D. in education at Stanford University
  • Ph.D. in international relations at American University
  • Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University
  • Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University
  • Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University
  • Ph.D. within the romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame
  • Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College
  • Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University
  • Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University

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Reach your goals with a doctoral degree

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Finish your doctorate with dedicated support and resources

Franklin University’s start-to-finish online doctoral programs let you earn your highest professional credentials in just three years -- including your dissertation. Learn how to bring a higher level of technical, technological, research, communication and leadership skills to the workplace or classroom. 

We’re with you every step of the way. From your peers and the Doctoral Student Association to your faculty and academic advisors, you’ll find a network of support alongside free resources to bolster your writing and research.

Finish your doctorate faster - including one year for your dissertation.

Hear What Our Doctoral Students Are Saying

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“The positive part is the faculty. They’re amazing teachers. I’ve been at other universities prior to this, but the faculty members at Franklin are what keep me coming.”

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“What drew me to Franklin’s program was the online coursework that enabled me to continue to work full time while progressing through the program. The flexibility allowed me to learn how I could improve my organization and implement changes in real time.”

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"I can't stop my life as a parent with a full-time job to pursue academics. Franklin bridges that gap for me. I still have all my responsibilities but I'm challenged in a good way. And I can see myself graduating in a couple of years with a doctorate."

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“I didn’t really have any hesitations. I knew right away that Franklin was the school for me. I knew that a doctorate in healthcare is what I wanted from the beginning to help make an impact on the community."

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“Earning my doctorate will help me hone my leadership skills and build my knowledge within my discipline, which is nonprofit management. I want to learn how to ask tough questions of myself, my leadership team and my staff to really make my organization an even stronger one than it is today.”

Get 360-Degree Support Throughout Your Doctoral Program

You’ll receive robust academic support from a variety of resources throughout your doctoral program. Together, our practice-minded faculty and your fellow doctoral students will support, mentor, encourage and keep you accountable to the program – and to yourself. 

Doctoral Faculty Advisor

Your faculty advisor guides your research interests and appropriate coursework selection.

1:1 Research Support

Convenient online access to Franklin’s librarians helps you maximize our robust research and library services.

Graduate Advisor

A graduate advisor regularly reviews academic progress, creates a personal education plan, ensures you are registered for courses each term, and connects you with other University departments and resources.

Academic Support Team

Our academic support services staff are available for paper review (prior to your dissertation courses), tutoring, and pertinent workshops such as APA (American Psychological Association) style and stress management.

Differentiate Yourself With An Applied Doctorate

Different than a theoretical, academia-focused doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree, our applied doctorate degrees for the working professional prepares you to lead, innovate and transform. 

Franklin’s doctorates are professionally oriented degrees that enable you to apply doctoral-level thinking to complex problems in the real world. The cross-disciplinary programs also provide an avenue to expand your research, communication and decision-making competencies.

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