phd in nursing distance education

PhD in Nursing Program

Florida's First Online PhD for Nurse Scientists

Post-Master’s Online Nursing PhD

Led by faculty experts at ucf.

Contribute to nursing’s future with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing degree from UCF. The online nursing PhD program will prepare you for a career at the forefront of nursing science where you’ll contribute to the body of knowledge and test theories, and lead research in the application of innovative strategies for clinical care and nursing education.

The doctoral program in nursing prepares nurse scholars to possess a body of knowledge about theory, processes and methods of inquiry in the discipline of nursing. The program allows students to contribute to disciplinary and interdisciplinary knowledge in nursing and healthcare from the basis of sound conceptual, methodological, and ethical decision-making.

Exclusive PhD Funding Opportunities

In addition to UCF graduate fellowship opportunities for full-time students, there is exclusive funding available for students planning to obtain a nursing faculty position after graduation and help address the nationwide shortage of doctorally prepared nursing faculty.

• UCF Graduate Fellowships  – More than $2M in fellowship funding awarded annually
• Nurse Faculty Loan Program  – Federal loan forgiveness program for nursing PhD students
• Nurse Faculty  PIPELINE Funding  – $150K awarded annually to cover tuition and fees

High Quality. Low Cost.

Expertise of nationally recognized faculty. Convenience and flexibility of UCF Online.

Now at a lower cost with reduced tuition through fee waivers for some campus-based amenities.

Distinguished   UCF Faculty. Esteemed UCF Degree. Options Designed for Working Professionals Like You.

• You fulfill the general UCF graduate admissions requirements ( see Admissions section of the UCF Graduate Catalog ).
• You are a licensed RN in the state in which you practice.
• You have an MSN and BSN degree from a regionally accredited institution or equivalent ( students without a MSN degree should refer to the BSN to PhD in Nursing program )
• Your research interests match faculty expertise .

The UCF Nursing PhD curriculum is delivered online with two multiple-day onsite intensives per year.

The program requires a minimum of 63 credit hours beyond a master’s degree in nursing. This includes:

• 39 credit hours of required courses that focus on foundational knowledge development, and research methods and experiences;
• 15 dissertation credit hours; and
• 9 credit hours of supporting courses that develop student expertise in the area chosen for their dissertation. PhD students are encouraged to seek out interdisciplinary supporting courses.

View Sample Plans of Study

Yes, you may pursue the Nursing PhD program at UCF from any location, both within or outside of Florida.

Note the Nurse Licensure Compact does not apply to PhD programs.

Visit our Doctoral Admissions page for details on the application process and requirements.

Please note:  The College of Nursing accepts the most qualified students based on evaluations of the applicant’s abilities, past performance, recommendations and match of  UCF research areas  with applicant’s career goals.

Access to Excellence

Renowned ucf faculty. esteemed ucf degrees. options designed for you..

50 Best Online PhD Nursing Programs [2024 Guide]

Looking for Online PhD Nursing Programs for 2024? Compare PhD vs. DNP and see which doctoral nursing program is the best fit.

With your Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice, your job prospects are positive with a projected faster than average job growth rate of 45%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

List of Schools Offering Online PhD Nursing Programs

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

1. Boise State University

Established in 1932 by the Episcopal Church, Boise State University is located in Boise, Idaho.

The 8-semester DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) in Leadership program is a flexible, online course delivered in a cohort model with other Master’s prepared nurses across the country. There are 4 on-campus Orientation/Executive sessions. Students take 5-6 credits per semester.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice in Leadership

Boise State University  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

2. Clarion University

Founded in 1867, Clarion University is located in Clarion, Pennsylvania.

The DNP course is a consortium program between the Edinboro and Clarion Universities. The online, 27-credit-hour, affordable Clarion and Edinboro Universities program is flexible and can be customized to match the student’s interest.

The courses can be taken over 5 semesters in a part-time format.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Clarion University ‘s programs are accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

3. Delta State University

Located in Cleveland, Mississippi, Delta State University was established in 1924.

The online DNP program is offered by the University’s Robert E Smith School of Nursing. There are different options for Registered Nurses, Post-Master’s FNP, and Post-Master’s non-FNP students, each with different credit hour requirements. Part-time options are also available.

Delta State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

4. Duquesne University

Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Duquesne University is a Catholic university established in 1878.

The online DNP program is ranked #83 for Best Nursing Schools for DNP in the country by U.S. News & World Report. It has three start dates in the year, and there is no GRE requirement.

There is an option to study abroad at Duquesne’s Rome and Dublin campuses. Other programs include PhD Nursing and PhD Nursing Ethics.

• PhD in Nursing
• PhD in Nursing Ethics

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

5. East Carolina University

Established in 1907, East Carolina University is located in Greenville, North Carolina.

The online/hybrid 36-semester hour DNP program provides two pathways to attain the degree – post-master’s and post-baccalaureate. Students are required to attend 1-5 day on-campus sessions at the beginning of every semester.

There are 5 core courses and 4 DNP project courses apart from the electives.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice (Hybrid)
• PhD in Nursing (Hybrid)

East Carolina University  is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

6. Georgia College & State University

Georgia College & State University is located in Milledgeville, Georgia. It was founded in 1889.

The 95% online DNP program comprises 37 semester hours and 540 clinical hours. The program includes a mentored capstone project that focuses on translational and clinical research. The program can be completed within 7 years.

Georgia College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

7. Georgia Southern University

With its flagship campus in Statesboro, Georgia, GSU was established in 1906.

The 100% online only DNP program is spread over 6 semesters, with flexible schedules. Students can take 2-3 courses per semester, and the curriculum requirement is 37 credit hours. There are 9 electives offered in the program.

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

8. Hampton University

A historically black university that was established in 1868 by black and white leaders, Hampton University is located in Hampton, Virginia.

The post-master’s degree DNP program is delivered 100% online and requires a minimum of 33 hours of coursework (each course: 16 weeks) and 500 clinical hours. There are 3 campus residency sessions. The program can be completed in 2 years.

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

9. Illinois State University

Located in Normal, Illinois, Illinois State University was founded in 1857.

The 34-hour online DNP program can be completed across 7 semesters and includes 18 hours core courses, 3 hours applied data analysis and management, 6 hours clinical residency, and 7 hours of a scholarly project.

Post-baccalaureate students must complete 1,000 hours of clinical work. International students must submit a Credentials Evaluation Service Report and English proficiency scores.

Illinois State University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

10. Indiana University – Purdue University – Indianapolis

Located on the White River/Fall Creek, Indiana, this school was established in 1969 with a merger of the two universities.

The online DNP program is offered by the IU School of Nursing. It is a post-master’s degree 37-41 credit hour professional doctorate program. Additional intensive in-person course-related interactions are focused on policy and advocacy.

• PhD in Nursing Science

IUPUI  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

11. Indiana State University

Indiana State University is classified as a Doctoral/Research University. It was established in 1865 and is located in Terre Haute, Indiana.

The online DNP program is offered by the University’s College of Health and Human Services and is available across all but 15 states in the US.

The program has a 39-credit-hour requirement post master’s degree program, and students must complete 1,000 hours of supervised clinical preceptorship. There is no dissertation requirement.

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

12. Johns Hopkins University

Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Johns Hopkins University was established in 1876.

The DNP program is available in Hybrid and Online formats, and students can choose one of two pathways.

Students can pick the DNP option that fits their career goals – the online local program that provides opportunities to work with Johns Hopkins faculty in Baltimore or the online with onsite immersion where students attend campus for 7 immersion sessions.

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

13. Medical University of South Carolina

Established in 1874, the Medical University of South Carolina is located in Charleston, South Carolina. It is one of the oldest continuously operating medical schools in the USA.

The online DNP program is not available in 3 states across the country. It can be completed in 2 years. The university’s online programs were ranked #6 in the nation, #3 among public universities, and #2 for nursing programs for veterans by U.S. News & World Report.

The  Medical University of South Carolina  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

14. Missouri State University

Located in Springfield, Missouri, Missouri State University was founded in 1905.

The online DNP program for Anesthesia Practice and Nursing Practice programs are both delivered 100% online and can be undertaken while pursuing a career.

The program comprises 29 hours of doctorate coursework and 528 clinical rotation hours and will take a minimum of 5 semesters to complete.

• Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice

Missouri State University ‘s regional accreditation is through the Higher Learning Commission.

15. Murray State University

Murray State University was founded in 1922 and is located in Murray, Kentucky.

The 36-month DNP program curriculum combines distance learning and online learning, with the first year being 100% online. The second and third years are delivered in a hybrid format. Core courses are taught online, while specialty courses are delivered face-to-face.

Murray State University  is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

16. Northern Arizona University

With its main campus in Flagstaff, Arizona, Northern Arizona University was established in 1899.

The online DNP program is delivered by the University’s College of Health and Human Services. The program comprises 74-79 units of graduate-level course work and 1,000 hours of clinical practice, with a minimum of 240 hours to be completed at the Northern Arizona University.

NAU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

17. Northern Kentucky University

Located in Highland Heights, Kentucky, Northern Kentucky University was founded in 1948.

The100% online DNP program can be completed in 20 months. Students are required to complete 10 core courses of seven weeks length each over for 35 credit hours. The tuition is affordably priced, and multiple start dates are available throughout the year.

Northern Kentucky University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

18. Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Established in 1856, the Northwestern State University of Louisiana has a colorful and interesting history. Located in Natchitoches, Louisiana, it is one of the oldest educational institutions in the state.

The 100% online DNP program is completed over 42 hours of coursework. Students must complete 1,000 hours of clinical work at an approved institution.

Northwestern State University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. Ohio State University

Located in Columbus, Ohio, Ohio State University was established in 1870.

The online DNP program is delivered by the university’s College of Nursing. Students completing the DNP program are eligible for certification in one of the advanced practice specialties available. The program has limited authorization in some states and is not available in some states.

Ohio State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

20. Old Dominion University

Established in 1930, the Old Dominion University is located in Norfolk, Virginia. The online DNP program is offered by the university’s College of Nursing. Students are required to take 10 courses to complete the degree either on a full or part-time basis. Full-time students can complete the 37-credit course in 1.5 years.

• DNP – Advanced
• DNP – Executive

Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

21. Radford University

Founded in 1910, Radford University is located in Radford, Virginia.

The post-master’s degree, 30-credit-hour, online DNP program can be done full time or part-time but must be completed within 8 years. Four different DNP concentrations are available.

The university offers a range of research resources, including tutoring in writing skills, online library compilation, etc.

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

22. Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville

Located in Edwardsville, Illinois, this branch was established in 1957.

The post-master’s degree, 30-credit, online DNP program is offered by the university’s School of Nursing in combination with the School of Business. The program is structured to be fully online with two on-campus immersion experiences and is conducted over 54 hours of coursework.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville  is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

23. Texas Woman’s University

Texas Woman’s University is a co-educational institution located in Denton, Texas. It was established in 1902.

The DNP program is available in a Hybrid format, combining both online study and classroom experience. It requires 46 hours, plus 500 hours of clinical work and a capstone project to complete. The program is offered at the university’s Dallas and Houston centers.

Texas Woman’s University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

24. University at Buffalo

The flagship institution of the State University of New York system, the University at Buffalo, was founded in 1846. It has campuses in Amherst and Buffalo, New York, and was originally founded as a medical college.

The online 5-7-semester post-master’s degree 36-credit-hour 100% online DNP program is offered by the University’s School of Nursing. Students must complete 400 hours of clinical work.

The  University at Buffalo  is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

25. University of Alabama

Located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, the University of Alabama was established in 1820.

The 30 credit online DNP program usually takes about 1.5 years to complete. Students are provided with a faculty advisor to support them through the program.

The program requires one or two campus-based immersion experiences and 1,000 practice hours, of which 500 are part of a supervised program.

• EdD in Instructional Leadership – Nurse Education (Hybrid)

The University of Alabama is accredited and/or recognized by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

26. University of Alabama – Huntsville

Established in 1950 as an extension of the University of Alabama, the University of Alabama – Huntsville is located in Huntsville, Alabama.

The 40-credit-hour fully online DNP program is taken over several semesters as determined by the Graduate Faculty Adviser. It offers two pathways: Post-baccalaureate and Post-Master’s degree. The program has one required Intensive in the Spring Semester.

UAH  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

27. University of Arizona

Located in Tucson, Arizona, the University of Arizona was established in 1885.

The 100% online DNP program has 7 concentration options and enables students who have completed the program to be licensed through the Arizona State Board of Nursing. Students must complete at least 500 hours of clinical practice. The program is not offered to students in some states.

• DNP – Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid)
• DNP – Executive Health Systems Leadership (Hybrid)
• DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid)
• DNP – Nurse Anesthesia (Hybrid)
• DNP – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid)
• DNP – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid)
• DNP – Nursing Informatics (Hybrid)

The University of Arizona  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

28. University of Central Arkansas

Established in 1907, the University of Central Arkansas is located in Conway, Arkansas and is noted for courses in nursing, psychology, education, business, and performing arts.

The online DNP program is delivered over 6 consecutive semesters. Students are required to take 2 intensive on-campus days each year, take 2 courses each semester, with 15 hours per week for each 3-hour course.

The University of Central Arkansas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

29. University of Central Florida

Located in Orlando, Florida, the University of Central Florida was established in 1963. UCF College of Nursing was adjudged among the Most Innovative in 2019-20.

The fully online post-master’s DNP program offers flexibility, convenience, and affordability. Students can take advantage of reduced tuition costs through fee waivers and campus amenities.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice – Advanced
• Doctor of Nursing Practice – Executive

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

30. University of Colorado – Colorado Springs

The University of Colorado – Colorado Springs was established in 1902.

The fully online 70-credit-hour DNP program can be completed in 3 years of full-time study and 5 years of part-time study. Students must also complete a capstone project and are required to complete 1,170 hours of supervised clinical coursework at a local medical facility.

UCCS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

31. University of Iowa

Located in Iowa City, Iowa, the University of Iowa was founded in 1847. It is the oldest university in the state and the first co-educational institution in the US. The School of Nursing is ranked #14 among the Best Nursing Schools for DNP by U.S. News & World Report.

The top-ranked, online/Hybrid DNP program is offered in a flexible, affordable format tailored to suit individualized schedules and preferences.

The  University of Iowa  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

32. University of Kansas

With its main campus in Lawrence, Kansas, the University of Kansas was established in 1866.

The post-master’s degree online DNP program requires 19 credit hours of DNP core courses. Students must fulfill at least 6 hours of the doctoral research project, 7 credit hours of specialty courses along with the university’s Research Skills and Responsible Scholarship requirement.

• DNP (Hybrid)

The  University of Kansas  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

33. University of Louisiana at Lafayette

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette was established in 1898.

The online DNP program is offered in collaboration with the Intercollegiate Consortium for Master of Science Nursing, with concentration as a Family Nurse Practitioner is available with a 42-45-credit-hour requirement.

Students can take the program across five semesters and is best suited for those living in Louisiana.

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

34. University of Mississippi

Established in 1844, the University of Mississippi is located in Oxford, Mississippi.

The flexible, online DNP program is offered by the university’s Medical Center School of Nursing. Students who have completed a master’s degree take 2-3 years. Course delivery combines online courses and intensive 1 or 2-day on-campus sessions each semester.

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

35. University of Missouri

Located in Columbia, Missouri and established in 1839, the University of Missouri is the largest university in the state.

The online, 72-74.5 credit hour DNP program is offered by the University’s Sinclair School of Nursing. Students must complete 1,000 hours of supervised clinical hours, based on the emphasis area, and a DNP Scholarly Project.

• DNP – Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (Hybrid)
• DNP – Nursing Leadership and Innovations in Health Care (Hybrid)
• DNP – Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist (Hybrid)
• DNP – Pediatric Nurse Practitioner-Primary Care (Hybrid)
• DNP – Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Hybrid)
• DNP – PhD in Nursing (Hybrid)

The  University of Missouri  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

36. University of Nevada – Las Vegas

Established in 1959, the University of Nevada – Las Vegas is located in Paradise, Nevada.

The 100% online post-master’s degree DNP program comprises around 31 semester credit hours depending on the track chosen. Several specializations are offered. A loan program is available for qualified, eligible students. No GRE/GMAT is required. The program is not available in some states.

• Doctor of Nursing Practice: BSN – DNP Family Nurse Practitioner
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: BSN – DNP Nurse Executive
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: Post-Master’s Advanced Practice
• Doctor of Nursing Practice: Post-Masters Nurse Executive
• Doctor of Philosophy – Nursing

The  University of Nevada, Las Vegas  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

37. University of Nevada – Reno

Located in Reno, Nevada, this university was established in 1874.

The online DNP program is available either via BSN to DNP or as a post-master’s degree. The 30-credit-hour program can be completed in two years. Students can also take a 3-year study plan that also requires 30 credit hours.

The  University of Nevada, Reno  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

38. University of New Hampshire

With its main campus in Durham, New Hampshire, the University of New Hampshire was founded in 1866.

The online DNP program requires 8 core courses, 3 doctoral seminars, two on-campus residencies, and 1,000 advanced practice clinical hours, a publishable scholarly paper, a successful oral defense of the DNP project, and its acceptance by your DNP team. Cohorts are admitted bi-annually.

The  University of New Hampshire  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

39. University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

Located across 16 of North Carolina’s campuses, the University of North Carolina was originally founded at Chapel Hill in 1789. It is the first residential school for gifted students to be set up in the US.

The online DNP program takes about two years to complete on a full-time basis. The program length varies between 37 and 41 credit hours for post-master’s degree students on a full or part-time basis.

• DNP – Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Nursing
• DNP – Nursing Education

UNC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

40. University of North Dakota

Established in 1883, the University of North Dakota is located in Grand Forks, North Dakota.

The university offers a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and also a PhD in Nursing. The online DNP program can be taken on a full-time, part-time, or accelerated basis.

Students take 18-24 months to complete the full-time program, 32 months for the part-time program, and 12 months for the accelerated one.

The University of North Dakota as a whole is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

41. University of South Alabama

Located in Mobile, Alabama, the University of South Alabama was established in 1963.

The online DNP program is offered by the University’s College of Nursing. Students can choose from among 15 different specialty areas. Three pathways are available for students based on their level of education. All requirements for the degree must be completed within 7 years.

• DNP – Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Adult-Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Clinical Nurse Specialist
• DNP – Executive Nurse Administrator
• DNP – Family Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Nursing Informatics
• DNP – Pediatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Psychiatric (Family) Nurse Practitioner
• DNP – Public Health Administration
• DNP – Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner

The  University of South Alabama  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

42. University of Southern Mississippi

With its main campus located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, the University of Southern Mississippi was established in 1910.

The DNP program is available via three pathways. The BSN to DNP program is 100% online, while the Nursing (FNP) MSN and Nursing (FNP) Graduate Certificate programs are Hattiesburg Hybrid. Students require 34-43 credit hours to complete the program.

• PhD in Nursing Leadership

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

43. University of Texas at Tyler

The University of Texas at Tyler was founded in 1971.

The PhD Nursing program and partly online DNP programs are offered by the University’s Department of Graduate Nursing. The DNP program consists of 45 credit hours and 1,000 clinical hours. Scholarship and financial support are available for eligible students.

The  University of Texas at Tyler  is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

44. University of Toledo

Located in Toledo, Ohio, the University of Toledo was established in 1872.

The online DNP program is designed to admit BSN prepared nurses. There are four program major options. Some of the courses are available online, while students will have to attend classes at the UT Health Science Campus along with 1060-1150 hours of clinical practice.

The  University of Toledo  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

45. Villanova University

Established in 1842, Villanova University is a Catholic University located in Radnor Township, Pennsylvania.

The University offers a PhD in Nursing and a post-master’s DNP degree. The 32 credit hour DNP program is a blend of distance learning and classroom experiences. Distance learning classes are according to a fixed schedule.

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

46. Virginia Commonwealth University

Located in Richmond, Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University is ranked among the best in the country by U.S. News & World Report, its DNP program ranked #37 among best nursing schools. It was established in 1838.

The online DNP program is available on a full or part-time basis with a 39 minimum credit hour requirement. Students are required to be on campus three times during a year. TOEFL scores are required for non-native-English-speaking students.

VCU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

47. West Virginia University

With its main campus in Morgantown, West Virginia, the West Virginia University was established in 1862.

The online DNP program offered by the University’s School of Nursing has a requirement of 33 credit hours completed over 7-10 semesters. Additional clinical and capstone credits may be required to complete the coursework.

West Virginia University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

48. William Carey University

William Carey University was established in 1892 and is located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. It is a Christian college affiliated with the Southern Baptist Church.

The PhD Nursing program can be taken over two or three years through a trimester system. The pace can be tailored to the student’s requirements, but the program must be completed in 6 years.

• PhD in Nursing Education and Administration (Hybrid)

William Carey University  is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

49. Wilmington University

Located in Newcastle, Delaware, Wilmington University was established in 1968.

The online DNP program is flexible and delivered 100% online. It can be completed in 28 months, culminating in a 9-credit, one-year long doctoral project. Core courses are delivered in 7-week-long blocks and DNP project courses over 15-week semesters.

• DNP – Advanced Practice
• DNP – Leadership

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

50. Winona State University – Rochester

Located in Rochester, Minnesota, the Winona State University – Rochester was founded in 1917.

The DNP program is designed for the RN prepared student with either a baccalaureate or master’s degree in nursing. The master’s degree student is required to complete 31 credit hours, which include 9 clinical scholarship credits and 540 clinical hours.

Winona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Types of Online PhD Nursing Programs

These are the three most common degrees for a doctoral degree in nursing. Click on the one that most interests you to jump to that section.

PhD in Nursing Education

Phd in healthcare leadership.

Each one can help prepare you for a different career in the medical field.

A doctor of philosophy (PhD) in Nursing Education can help prepare you to teach nursing at the university level.

As a practicing nurse yourself, you may have the experience and expertise for delivering high-quality care in a clinical setting. Your doctorate coursework can help you become an expert teacher as well so that you can pass on what you’ve learned to upcoming nurses.

The curriculum for this program typically focuses on learning theories and teaching strategies, curriculum development, how to evaluate nursing students, and the ethics of nursing.

After you graduate, you may become a professor, a professional trainer at a hospital, or a dedicated researcher who presents new findings to the nursing world. In any of these roles, you may be shaping the future of the medical field as you teach or otherwise inform nursing professionals.

With a PhD in Healthcare Leadership or Healthcare Management, you might teach at a university or continue working in a clinical setting as an administrator.

Your courses will likely focus on setting a vision for your institution, monitoring and evaluating your organization’s performance, financial management, patient care, and applicable laws and regulations.

You might also take classes that address specific issues or help you to develop certain skills, such as opioid medicines, environmental safety, health management information systems, research methods and statistics, and public speaking.

If you enjoy the business side of the medical world and want to make a real difference in your institution, this may be the track for you.

The two main options for graduates with this degree is to become a hospital or office administrator or to become a nurse practitioner. You may also serve as a trainer in your organization.

If you choose to go in the direction of administration, you might be a nurse manager or help to set policy for your organization. Your coursework will likely focus on delivering excellent patient care, management, and financial responsibility.

The second popular option is to study to be a nurse practitioner. While this degree doesn’t qualify you to be a doctor per se, you can perform many functions that a doctor does, including seeing and diagnosing patients, administering anesthesia, and delivering babies as a nurse midwife.

You’ll work under a doctor who approves any medicine prescriptions or certain treatment plans.

What Is the Difference between a DNP and a PhD in Nursing?

The main differences between a PhD and DNP include the following:

As you can see, the average salary range is fairly close, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The gap between PhD nursing programs and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs  boils down to what you plan on doing once you complete your coursework and how long your program will take.

PhD students focus on research and the development of nursing theory, as well as how to communicate with students and other parties once these graduates take on positions within the educational field. Though the coursework is shorter, PhD students will likely need to write a dissertation to demonstrate their research skills and expertise over the subject matter.

On the other hand, DNP students plan to put this research and exploration of theory to practice in a more hands-on manner. Members of this group specialize in the application of their learning via clinical practice and administration. They might manage other nurses or serve as a family nurse practitioner  in a doctor’s office.

DNP students typically spend longer in their programs, but their final projects aren’t usually as time-consuming as writing a dissertation.

Online PhD in Nursing Program Curriculum

Before signing up for classes, it’s a good idea to review the required curriculum for the average PhD in a nursing program. You will likely cover the following topics and subject matter :

• Philosophical Perspectives in Health
• Activities and Responsibilities of the Nurse Scientist
• Quantitative Research Design and Methods
• Scientific Perspectives in Nursing
• Statistical Methods in Public Health

Typically, a PhD in Nursing requires a dissertation. However, some universities offer a Doctor of Nursing Practice with no dissertation .

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Concentrations

Like most other doctoral programs, there’s plenty of opportunities to further refine your learning experience via coursework specializations. Some of the most common concentrations include:

• Nursing Education
• Nursing Leadership
• Nursing Administration
• Health Policy
• Specializations for Nurse Practitioners

A concentration can help enhance your understanding of a unique area in the field, thereby increasing your value and competency when it comes time to apply this learning in a professional setting.

Doctorate in Nursing Career Outlook and Salary Information

Considering the near-constant need for reliable medical professionals and academic luminaries, it’s no surprise that the BLS reports a healthy career outlook for members of the nursing community. Specifically, job opportunities for nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nursing practitioners are expected to grow by an average of 45% over the next ten years.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some careers in the nursing field for PhD or DNP holders include:

Accreditation for Doctoral Nursing Programs

When you’re looking for a university to attend, make sure that it is properly accredited. Accreditation by an independent third-party can help ensure that your university and nursing program meets the highest standards. Your university as a whole should be accredited by one of these six regional boards.

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

The university’s nursing program could also be accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc . Note that it is not necessary to have these program-specific accreditations.

Financial Aid for Students in Online DNP or Nursing PhD Program

Financial aid is not just for undergrads. Doctoral students can take advantage of it as well. And earning your degree online or on campus doesn’t affect the aid that you qualify for.

When you fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) , you’ll see what grants and loans you qualify for. You can then look for scholarship opportunities at your university or through private organizations. Your university may also offer you a fellowship.

Talk to your employer about possible tuition assistance or tuition reimbursement programs. Also, look into any potential accelerated nursing programs to help reduce the time it takes you earn your PhD.

Questions Related to Earning Your PhD in Nursing

Here are our answers to a few more questions you might have about earning your doctorate in nursing.

What Is a PhD in Nursing?

Usually spanning between 60 and 80 credit hours of coursework, most PhD in nursing programs cover the research of nursing best practices in the clinical, academic, and scientific environments. However, the application of managerial theory and administrative concepts also serves as a building block of this graduate-level learning experience.

PhD in nursing programs cater to nursing students and established practitioners alike. While returning to the medical industry is definitely a possibility, most recipients of this degree remain in the academic world, seeking tenure at accepting institutions and teaching others via experiential learning.

How Much Does a Nurse with a PhD Make?

Having a PhD puts you higher than students with a bachelor’s or even master’s degree.  For example, nurse instructors with a master’s in nursing education earn $74,600 on average. The highest earning potential for a nurse PhD as a professor is $133,460 on average (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Salary differences are mainly a result of a person’s experience, medical organizations or universities that a person works for, and the location where they live.

Do DNP Get Paid More than NP?

No, a DNP does not get paid more than an NP because they are essentially the same thing. DNP stands for Doctor of Nursing Practice and is the degree that a Nurse Practitioner (NP) holds.

Is a Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing Worth It?

Yes, a doctor of philosophy in nursing is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 15% job growth in healthcare occupations over the next 10 years. Common careers in this field include acute care nurse practitioner, chief nursing officer, and nursing instructor.

It may take a lot of hard work completing the classes and writing your dissertation, but you’ve come this far in your education and career, so with determination, you can finish your doctoral degree as well.

You can start by deciding which degree you want – a PhD in Nursing Education, a PhD in Healthcare Leadership, or a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Then, narrow down your choice of schools by degree offering and possible concentrations. Apply to your top 3-5 choices and research financial aid opportunities.

In 3-5 years, you may be finished with your degree and an expert in your field.

Online PhD in Nursing PHD

The School of Nursing online PhD program integrates science, theory and research to educate the next generation of nurse scientists and leaders. Our students strive to advance nursing knowledge and translate research into practice that promotes the health and care of patients.

The UWM online PhD in nursing is a research-intensive program that prepares doctoral students as scientists who generate knowledge to advance nursing.

Program Type

Program format, about uw-milwaukee school of nursing.

As the largest School of Nursing in the state of Wisconsin, UW-Milwaukee partners with over 160 agencies to prepare nurse scientists, researchers and educators. Go beyond the bedside and make an impact on the world around you with a PhD in nursing from UWM.

• How to Apply
• Statistics Courses

About Our Online PhD Nursing Program

Similar to graduates of the college’s traditional PhD program, graduates of the online PhD nursing program are ready for careers in education, research and practice, and to assume leadership positions. Students work closely with major professors to define their success early so students can plan and conduct cutting-edge research using a variety of research methods.

Students are admitted as a cohort and are required to attend a one-week orientation at the beginning of the program and return to campus at the end of their program of study. Online courses are offered every two years and must be taken in sequence.

Scholarships & Funding

We understand that financial support is important to every student. A variety of options are available to help students finance their education at UWM, including over $500,000 in nursing scholarships & funding awarded annually, as well as loans, grants, student employment, fellowships, military education benefits and more. UWM offers generous aid options for students seeking to be nurse educators or nurse faculty.

Students in the online PhD in Nursing program progress as a cohort, starting in the summer of odd years.

Online Graduate Tuition

Tuition for the Online PhD in Nursing and Online Post-Master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (Advanced Practice) is $935 per credit (flat fee) for courses within the curriculum. Specialty courses offered outside of the College may be subject to campus tuition rates.

Summer Start

All applicants must apply through the  Graduate School’s application system and upload the following:

• a nonrefundable application fee;
• unofficial transcripts from each academic institution attended where at least nine or more credits were attempted or completed. Applicants are required to submit official transcripts after an admission offer is accepted;
• current curriculum vitae;
• references from three different people who know about your academic experience and your potential for graduate study in nursing.
• a written statement from the applicant that includes previous professional experience, professional career goals, research interests, motivation for PhD study and educational objectives for the program.
• Two examples of original work that demonstrate the applicant’s academic potential.
• A conversation with a faculty member is required as part of the application process. A telephone conversation or video meeting (e.g. Zoom, Skype) may be used when travel is prohibitive.

Prerequisites

Applicants to the UWM Online PhD in Nursing must have:

• a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in nursing or health-related field from a professionally accredited program with a cumulative grade point average of 3.2 (4.0 scale) for all previous graduate coursework;
• completion of a graduate-level statistics course (within the last five years) with a grade of B or higher or must complete within the first semester of the program;
• Bachelor-prepared applicants must complete fifteen credits PRIOR to entering the Online PD program: NURS 720, 725, 735, 728 and 804. Contact academic advisor to create a plan.

UWM College of Nursing Approved Graduate Statistics Courses:

Program Advising

• Graduate Program Manager
• [email protected]
• Cunningham Hall 621

Academic Resources

• Academic Catalog
• Academic Enrichment Team
• Academic Programs
• Clinical Simulation Center
• Professional Nursing Major
• Schedule of Classes
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• Study Center

Best Online Ph.D. in Nursing Programs – 2024

What Factors Were Considered for Ranking the Best Ph.D. in Nursing Online Programs?

Following are the 10 best online ph.d. in nursing programs in the nation for 2024, 1) university of central florida - orlando, fl.

If gaining knowledge and expertise in nursing research interests you, then pursuing an online Ph.D. can be a fruitful decision. The University of Central Florida offers two online Ph.D. tracks that can be completed without keeping your current work assignments on hold. So, there is BSN to Ph.D. track that requires completing 75 credit hours post-BSN, whereas, if you have completed a master’s in nursing, your coursework for the MSN to Ph.D. track demands finishing 60-credit hours. Except for two intensives that require few days of campus visits per year, all courses are offered through the web.

Upon completion of this program, you will be able to explore promising employment opportunities, such as the director of nursing research, nurse scientist, nursing faculty, and research scientist.

Key Highlights

• UCF’s College of Nursing is highly ranked by the U.S. News and World Report in recognition of its innovative and pathbreaking online education. • The college has the expertise of offering quality web-based programs for the last 20 years that are well supported by its experienced faculty.

2) Vanderbilt University - Nashville, TN

Specializations Offered:

Vanderbilt University’s online Ph.D. in nursing science prepares you for a career in nursing research and education. Depending on your career goals, you can choose from either Clinical Research or Health Services Research. If you are inclined towards improving health outcomes by researching treatments that involve physical, psychological, and educational therapies, then the clinical research specialization is better suited. Whereas, the health services research specialty is focused on designing systems that evaluate treatments administered, their costs, and what happens to the patient, after that.

The coursework requires completion of at least 57 credit hours and is delivered completely online, with some parts being synchronous and some asynchronous. Out of the 57 credits, 32 are core courses, 15 credits are to be completed in your specialty-specific courses, and ten credits are towards your research thesis. To participate in experiential learning and interactive sessions with faculty, you must visit the campus for around 15 to 20 days per academic year.

• Vanderbilt University offers Ph.D. students multiple opportunities to interact with research scholars across the university and the nation. • You will be taught by a faculty that is nationally recognized and actively participates in research in your chosen specialty. • Eligible students can transfer 15 credits from their master’s degree towards this Ph.D.

3) Walden University - Minneapolis, MN

If you are keen on positively impacting the future of healthcare by actively participating in research, teaching, and policymaking, then completing your Ph.D. in any of the tracks offered by Walden University can be given a thought. One of the sought-after Ph.D. in Nursing online programs in MN, you need at least a master’s degree to be eligible for this program. Acknowledging your past education, the college allows a transfer of up to 40 credits towards the Ph.D. With five tracks in education, healthcare administration, interdisciplinary health, leadership, and population health, you can opt for the one that matches your career aspirations.

Regardless of what specialization you choose, the degree requires completing a total of 81 credits, comprising 20 credits of research courses, 25 credits in core courses, and 15 credits in courses of your chosen specialization. The curriculum culminates with a research thesis of 20 credits. Upon completion of this Ph.D. in your chosen specialty, you can go on to work as either a nursing professor, head a research organization, or become a health policymaker in a health organization.

• If you have completed your DNP, you can opt for the DNP to Ph.D. Bridge program where you can transfer 26 credits and save considerable time and tuition costs. • With Walden’s Sigma Theta Tau chapter, you can network with other nurses and share your nursing research ideas and gain a broader perspective.

4) University of Kansas - Kansas City, KS

The University of Kansas has been offering Ph.D. education since 1983, and its over 125 graduates are successfully working as nurse educators and research scholars in various educational and healthcare organizations. Graduates are trained in the skills and advance art and science of nursing, with emphasis on critical thinking and evidence-based decision making. On average, students complete this online program in three years on a full-time basis.

Well, you can enter this program after your bachelor’s or upon completion of your master’s in nursing. With the master’s, you will require six fewer credits, whereas as a post BSN student, you must complete additional courses in theories for practice research and healthcare research as part of your Ph.D. curriculum.

The curriculum involves completing 52-credit coursework plus 15 credits of thesis, and there are three areas of specialization to choose from - Health Systems, Symptom Science, and Education. Well, to enhance your chances of admission into this or for that matter any other Ph.D. in Nursing online programs, ensure you earn a minimum GPA of 3.50 in your BSN or 3.25 in your MSN, apart from holding an active nurse license and demonstrating an aptitude for leadership and research activities.

• You will be able to select up to 11 credits of your total coursework in the topic related to your research thesis. • You can opt to be mentored by a graduate faculty who shares your research interests.

5) University of Arizona - Tucson, AZ

University of Arizona College of Nursing offers several pathways to Ph.D. aspirants. You can enter this program either post your BSN or MSN. Alternatively, you can also opt to complete your Ph.D. along with a DNP or even earn a Ph.D. after completing the DNP. Whichever path you choose, you can complete this program online, both on a part-time and full-time basis. Besides the online courses, you are required to attend a mandatory one week of on-campus orientation, where you will collaborate with peers and faculty to explore the Ph.D. curriculum.

This online Doctor of Philosophy in nursing is offered in three areas of focused study-Precision Science, Health Determinants Science and Data and System Science, out of which you must choose one. This study constitutes 12 credits of your Ph.D. coursework and helps gain specialized knowledge in your area of focus. The total Ph.D. curriculum requires completing 64 credits. The coursework includes an 18-credit dissertation that is completed over multiple terms.

• The college is among the top nursing schools in receiving funding from the NIH. As a potential student, you will certainly benefit from the school’s dynamic research profile. • The school’s stellar faculty is accomplished, and they engage in research and scholarly activity in all the three areas of focused study.

6) Indiana University - Bloomington, IN

Indiana University’s online Ph.D. training prepares you for a career in private or public organizations as nursing faculty, director of clinical research, and director of clinical services. The program is grounded in nursing science and offers concentration options in Clinical Nursing Science and Health Systems. Clinical Nursing Science is ideal if you are inclined towards the research of prevention and early detection of diseases and disabilities across the lifespan, whereas Health Systems emphasizes on informatics, nursing education, and public health policy.

You can enter this program, either after your BSN or post an MSN. While the former requires completing 90 credits, the latter is shorter and requires just 60 credits as 30 credits are automatically transferred from the MSN towards your Ph.D. While most of the courses are offered online, you require attending two campus intensives per year. These visits can be enriching as you get the opportunity to network with mentors and other experts from the field. The curriculum is well balanced, covering courses in nursing science, biostatistics for public health, data analysis, and quantitative research. The coursework ends with a 16-credit thesis in nursing.

• If you are a resident of Indiana, you can complete this program at only one-third of the tuition cost that out of state students incur. • As an online student, you will be taught by the same faculty that teaches on-campus. Moreover, didactic sessions are synchronous in nature, so you practically land up in a virtual classroom with your peers, taking classes through videoconferencing.

7) University of Colorado - Denver, CO

If you are looking at a career in nursing education, nursing administration, or nursing research, then the University of Colorado’s nursing Ph.D. can be considered. You can enter this program, either after completing a BSN or MSN. Depending on professional interests, you can choose from any of the three areas of focus - Health Care Systems Research, Caring Science, and Behavioral Sciences. Although all courses are offered via the internet, however, you must be prepared to travel to Denver once every semester for the on-campus intensives.

The 60-credit Ph.D. coursework includes 18 credits of dissertation. On a full-time basis, you can complete this program in three years. As a pre-requisite to this program, you must complete a graduate-level course in statistics. Upon completion of core and specialization courses, you will demonstrate the expertise of developing new knowledge and findings through your nursing research.

• You are eligible for in-state tuition costs if your permanent residence address happens to be in any of the 15 states that include Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. • Eligible Ph.D. students can also avail scholarships that the college offers twice a year.

8) Villanova University - Villanova, PA

If you are looking at an online Ph.D. in Nursing program to attain the highest nursing degree, then you could consider Villanova University’s Ph.D. that prepares you to conduct clinical and educational based nursing research towards better nursing practice and education. This advanced credential will help you climb the career ladder in the academic field by preparing you to take up leadership positions in the higher education arena. With flexible schedules, you can complete this program in as little as two years or stretch it to three to four years. An additional two years are required for the completion of the nursing thesis.

The curriculum entails completing 51 credits; however, the exact number of credits may vary, depending on your past education. The coursework is designed to equip you with the practical and theoretical understanding required to create new knowledge of culturally relevant nursing practice and education. You will also learn to collaborate with members of other health disciplines to enhance your research.

• This Ph.D. program at Villanova is known for the personalized study experience it offers students. • Year after year, the National League for Nursing has honored the college’s Nursing School as being the Center of Excellence in Nursing Education, a testimony of the quality nursing education it offers.

9) Duquesne University - Pittsburgh, PA

The Ph.D. program being offered by Duquesne University since 1994 has trained over 100 graduates who are currently well established in their careers as nurse scientists. Primarily offered as a post MSN course, there is also a post-DNP track that can be completed in 2.5 years as it requires fewer credits. The Ph.D. program at Duquesne is mainly focused on preparing you for nursing research in addressing the health needs of the vulnerable and underserved populations that are economically backward and belong to racial or ethnic minorities.

To be eligible for this program, you must have earned a master’s, preferably in nursing, with a minimum GPA of 3.50. There is a three year and four-year track to choose from. The three-year track is rigorous and will hardly leave you any time for other commitments, whereas with the four-year track, you will be completing your coursework at a comfortable pace, typically taking six credits per semester, unlike the 6-10 in the three-year track. Both tracks require a graduate-level statistics course as a pre-requisite. The 53 credits curriculum includes 12 credits of a dissertation that takes place during the last year of your coursework.

• Residency requirements in this program include visits to the college campus, and as part of the Methods of Scientific Inquiry course, you will take part in a 10-14 day international trip to locations such as Dublin, Ireland, where you will be provided with housing at the college’s campus. • The program enjoys the distinction of being the first online Doctor of Philosophy in nursing program in the country.

10) University of Missouri - Columbia, MO

University of Missouri’s Ph.D. in Nursing prepares you for an advanced career in nursing, either as a scholar, educator, or clinical researcher. Due to its interdisciplinary approach, even non-nursing students can enter this program. To pursue this degree, you have three pathways; post-BSN, post-MSN, and post-DNP. Regardless of the pathway you choose, you will be taught by a faculty that comes from diverse academic backgrounds, bringing in their interdisciplinary experiences and knowledge.

This Ph.D. is offered in a hybrid mode, requiring few campus visits while taking the majority of your coursework online. There are three focus areas to choose from; innovations to improve health and health systems, health improvement of the vulnerable population, symptom, and behavior science. The post-BSN track requires completion of about 77 credits, whereas, the post-MSN and post-DNP require 56 and 48 credits, respectively.

• One of the few military-friendly online Ph.D. in Nursing programs in the nation, military personnel, veterans, and their eligible family members can avail of a 10% reduction in tuition costs. • You can benefit from the nursing school’s research connections across its various departments that include social work, public health, human development and family science, education, and health informatics.

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Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE)

Pursue your passion as a nurse educator and help shape the future of nursing..

Admissions   |   Curriculum   |   Tuition   |   FAQs   |   Information Sessions

The online Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE) is the first program of its kind in the country. Its launch comes at just the right time as we face an urgent national need for doctorally-educated nursing educators. This novel professional doctoral degree program is designed for master’s-prepared nurses who are passionate about educating nursing students and nurses and seek to become expert educators specifically in the clinical discipline of nursing.

This unique program emphasizes best practices in teaching and learning in nursing, curriculum design and development related to nursing education and clinical practice and nursing education assessment and evaluation—a combination not offered anywhere else in the country. 

You will choose from two specialization tracks to meet your specific goals:

• Academic nursing education
• Nursing professional development.

Whether you want to become an expert nurse educational leader in academia or healthcare, this program will prepare you to plan, implement and evaluate best evidence for nursing-specific instruction.

As a DNE student, you can expect to complete the program in five semesters (2 years) of full-time study or eight semesters (3 years) of part-time study, including summer semester coursework. The online DNE program consists of synchronous coursework, field experience/immersion hours to build competencies and a culminating final project.

Hear from current DNE student Rob Patton about how the program’s Nursing Professional Development specialization is helping him pursue his passion and shape the future of nursing.

Specializations

Academic Nursing Education

The academic nursing education track is developed for nurses with earned master’s degrees who seek to teach in college or university level academic nursing programs to prepare nurses for clinical practice at all levels.

Nursing Professional Development

The nursing professional development track is targeted to masters-level nursing professional development practitioners (NPDs) who seek doctoral preparation to educate nurses in healthcare settings to enhance healthcare outcomes.

Director, Doctor of Nursing Education Program

Assistant Director, Doctor of Nursing Education Program

What you'll learn.

As a graduate of the DNE program, you will gain the skills and competence to excel as a nursing educator. The following are expected outcomes for graduates of the DNE program.

• Translates and evaluates evidence-based principles of teaching and learning into the development, design, implementation, and evaluation of nursing education and practice for a diverse student population to transform the healthcare system 
• Demonstrates excellence in leadership roles for the development of practice models, policy, ethical principles, and competencies for nursing education and nursing professional development (NPD) 
• Applies evidence-based practice and translational science methodologies into educational scholarship to prepare graduates to be innovative and creative nurse educators prepared to drive change in nursing education and healthcare environments 
• Collaborates with interprofessional teams to implement and evaluate evidence-based teaching strategies to promote critical thinking and clinical decision-making in nursing 
• Demonstrates inclusion of wellness across multiple educational and practice settings for nursing students, faculty, NPD specialists, and organizations for improved health outcomes

Distance Education

State authorization for distance education can change. Please see this resource for the most accurate and up-to-date state authorization status for the DNE Program .

At this time, The Ohio State University College of Nursing is authorized to enroll distance learning students in many U.S. states. However, due to varying state laws and regulations, there are also many states in which we are not currently permitted to offer distance learning programs. Residents of these states are not able to participate in the programs. Applicants are strongly encouraged to visit the University’s Online Programs State Authorization webpage or email us at [email protected] to find out whether their program of interest is available in their home state. Please check back often, as the College and University are aggressively pursuing authorization in all 50 states. Residents outside of the U.S. are not able to participate in distance learning programs. Admission into a program is granted at the time of initial acceptance into the program and is dependent on program availability in the state where the student is physically located at the time of admission. If a student moves to a state other than the state where the student was physically present when admitted into the program, continuation within the program will depend on the availability of the program within the new state where the student is physically present. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the institution of a change in physical presence.

Accreditation Status

The Ohio State University Doctor of Nursing Education Program (delivered via distance education) holds pre-accreditation status from the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation, located at 2600 Virginia Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20037. 202-909-2487. Holding pre-accreditation status does not guarantee that initial accreditation by NLN CNEA will be received.

Application Deadline

• Autumn 2024 Opens: August 15 Deadline: March 1, 2024*

*Students interested in being considered for a fellowship or other available funding opportunities should have their completed application submitted by October 31.

Email [email protected]

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Ph.D. in Nursing – Nursing Education The Science of Teaching Care

Credit Hours

View Courses

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Advance the Nursing Profession with our Ph.D. in Nursing Education

Are you interested in influencing the field of nursing and taking the discipline even further? Nurses who are prepared with a Ph.D. are needed to steward the discipline and educate the next generation of nurses. Prepare to conduct original research, generate new ideas, design, implement, and communicate findings to lay audience programs for nurses — including formal academic programs that lead to a degree — with Liberty’s Ph.D. in Nursing – Nursing Education degree.

Our doctorate in nursing education is a great credential to have to advance or alter your career path. It can provide both the knowledge and research experience that is important to become a faculty member at a university or educator in a medical facility. You could become a professor of nursing or pursue other educational opportunities within healthcare — or go into hospital administration, health policy advocacy, or nursing research.

Nursing education is a growing field that needs educators who are passionate about patient advocacy and the advancement of excellent healthcare policies and processes. Apply your current experience to your studies and gain the knowledge you need to lead in advancing the nursing profession with a Ph.D. in Nursing.

Licensure requirements may vary and are subject to change without notice. View your state’s requirements here: licensure/certification requirements .

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s Ph.D. in Nursing Education Online Degree?

By choosing Liberty to pursue your doctoral degree, you’re choosing a university that is accredited, Christ-centered, and flexible with course scheduling. When you choose any of our online degree programs, you’re choosing excellence that is grounded in integrity.

Liberty University is accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ). This means that you can be confident that you are receiving a world-class education that has met rigorous education standards.

We understand that you may have family, career, and community obligations — so our program is designed to work around your busy life and schedule. You can complete your doctorate in nursing 100% online, in a flexible 8-week course format. Optional synchronous online sessions are delivered most weeks of the semester to allow you to maximize engagement with faculty, classmates, and the program.

At Liberty, our mission is to Train Champions for Christ . All of our programs are taught by Christian faculty who are not only nationally recognized educational leaders but also professors committed to your personal and professional success.

What Will You Study in Our Ph.D. in Nursing Education Online Degree?

In this program, you’ll learn to design and lead effective nursing education programs for the next generation of medical professionals. Your coursework can help you become a confident leader, equipped to implement change and improvements to nursing education. Through multi-disciplinary courses and interactions with your professors, you can develop the skills you need to lead and collaborate with healthcare teams and create positive change.

Upon successful completion of our program, you can be more prepared to:

• Act as a professional nursing leader, role model, and mentor for those who wish to pursue advancement in nursing.
• Advocate for policies and programs that improve health outcomes for individuals and communities.
• Apply ethical decision-making and values to the nursing profession based upon a biblical worldview.
• Contribute to the science of nursing by creating original research and scholarship.
• Educate the next generation of nurse scholars to add to the global community of nursing professionals.
• Synthesize the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of nursing in the practice of research

Potential Career Opportunities

• Health policy advocate
• Hospital administrator
• Nurse scientist
• Nursing professor/faculty member
• Nursing researcher

Featured Courses

• NURS 764 – Learning Theories and Teaching Methods for Nurse Educators
• NURS 765 – Curriculum Development and Program Evaluation for Nurse Educators
• NURS 766 – Advanced Evaluation Strategies for Nurse Educators
• NURS 784 – Assessment and Accreditation for Nursing Programs

Course guides available upon request

Degree Information

• This program falls under the School of Nursing .
• View the Graduate Nursing Course Guides (login required) .

Degree Completion Plan (PDF)

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

• Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

Eligible current and former military service members and their spouses may qualify for a special rate of $300/credit hour ( learn more ) .

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for our Ph.D. in Nursing – Nursing Education

Admission requirements.

At this time, our Ph.D. in Nursing Education degree is limited in certain states. Please view the licensure/certification requirements for your state. International students can contact the School of Nursing related to their degree interest.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree with at least a 3.0 GPA is required for admission in good standing.
• Contact information for one recommender
• Statement of Purpose
• One year minimum experience as a Registered Nurse (RN). Registered Nurse Licensure verification will be conducted annually until the curriculum for the online Ph.D. in Nursing: Nursing Education is completed. As the student, you are responsible to notify the School of nursing should any restrictions be placed on your license.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Preliminary Acceptance

If you are sending in a preliminary transcript for acceptance, you must:

• Be in your final term and planning to start your doctoral degree after the last day of class for your master’s degree.
• Complete a Master’s Self-Certification Form confirming your completion date. You may download the form from the Forms and Downloads page or contact an admissions counselor to submit the form on your behalf.
• Submit an official transcript to confirm that you are in your final term. The preliminary transcript must show that you are within 6 credit hours of completion for a 30-48 credit hour master’s degree or within 9 credit hours of completion for a 49+ credit hour master’s degree.
• Send in an additional, final official transcript with a conferral date on it by the end of your first semester of enrollment in the new doctoral degree.

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application online or over the phone.

Apply by phone: (800) 424-9595

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

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We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want – at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work toward your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession – for less.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sets this program apart from other similar offerings.

Our nursing faculty are nationally recognized educational leaders.

What does the career potential look like for this field?

With the growing demand for nurses, nurse educators are also in demand at all levels, and with a doctorate in nursing, you may find many employment doors opening.

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PhD in Nursing (Online)

Launched in 2008, the Queen's Nursing doctoral degree has an online and in-person blended delivery model. Our experienced faculty use both synchronous and asynchronous teaching modalities to lead small graduate seminars, engaging you in a lively, critical examination of philosophy, policy and theory while you delve into your own areas of research interests.

This innovative research program will not only give you the tools you need to become an expert in clinical, theoretical, and health system issues, but it will also prepare you for a career as a leader in health research, nursing education, clinical practice, and health care administration.

Questions? Contact the graduate nursing office →

Program overview, general information.

Our PhD program consists of six courses, five in the first year and one in the second year. There are three mandatory on-site intensive weeks ranging from 5-10 days in length, normally held in early September, mid-January, and early May of the first year of the program. After the intensive weeks, the courses continue with weekly online seminars.

Following the completion of the first-year courses, students will write the comprehensive exam and then take the sixth and final course which is designed to support students in developing a thesis proposal. After a successful oral examination of the thesis proposal, students submit their project for ethics review and then proceed to data collection, analysis, and writing. The thesis requires independent, original research and makes up at least two-thirds of the time normally required for the program.

Upper year students are expected to visit campus at least once per year, normally coinciding with the annual student research conference in spring (usually May); students are required to attend the final thesis examination in person. Nurtured by close mentoring relationships with faculty supervisors, the Queen’s model is to ensure graduate students present and publish their research, and normally complete their program in 4 years.

Additional Resources

• School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (SGSPA)
• SGSPA Academic Calendar
• SGSPA Academic Calendar - Nursing Section
• Society of Graduate and Professional Students
• Queen’s Nursing and Health Research
• Queen’s Collaboration for Health Care Quality (QcHcQ)

Interprofessional Education

Interprofessional education is essential to equip health professional students with the knowledge, expertise, and fundamental values required for collaborative practice. Learn more about how Queen’s Faculty of Health Sciences supports interprofessional education .

• Mandatory o nsite residency in September
• NURS 901: Philosophy of Nursing Science   (online)
• NURS 902: Qualitative Research Methods (online)
• NURS 999: Thesis Research (independently with PhD supervisor) 
• Mandatory o nsite residency in January
• NURS 900: Advanced Statistics and Analytic Techniques (online)
• NURS 903: Advanced Quantitative Measurement, Methods and Design (online)
• NURS 999: Thesis Research (independently with supervisor)

Spring/Summer:

• Mandatory o nsite residency in May (includes NURS 905)
• NURS 905: Nursing, Health Services and Public Policy in Canada  
• Prepare for comprehensive exam (independently with supervisor)
• Write c omprehensive examinations in early fall
• NURS 906: Thesis Seminar Course   (online)
• NURS 999: Thesis Research   (independently with supervisor)
• Graduate Research Day (May)
• Oral t hesis proposal exam late summer/early fall

Year 3/Year 4

• Participate in Graduate Student Research Day each spring
• Final oral t hesis exam, onsite at the end of fourth year

For more course information please visit the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs Academic Calendar .

School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs

International student resources, funding & awards, indigenous applicants.

Deadline to apply: Applications for Fall 2024 are due February 1, 2024.

Applications to all graduate programs are made through the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs starting in September for admission the following year.

Please note, only complete applications will be reviewed by the Graduate Program Committee in the School of Nursing.

Academic Requirements

• Master's degree in nursing science or equivalent, and a b accalaureate degree in nursing from an accredited university.
• Minimum overall average equivalent to B+.
• Two academic letters of reference (e.g. course professors).
• Statement of Interest  (see Additional Required Information tab).
• We strongly encourage applicants to contact  potential supervisors before applying.
• Applicants without an baccalaureate degree in nursing will be considered, but are strongly encouraged to contact the program prior to applying.

Additional Required Information

In addition to the online application submitted to the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs, the following documents must be submitted to [email protected] :  

• Describe your research experience to date (e.g. grants, publications, unpublished studies). Max. 250 words.
• Describe your proposed plan of research. What problem do you plan to address and why? What is its importance to the discipline? Describe a possible study design (e.g. framework, methodology). Max. 400 words.
• Describe how you have advocated for health equity, diversity, inclusion, indigeneity, and/or accessibility (EDIIA) within the healthcare system. How has your experience influenced your career path and other pursuits to this point? Max. 300 words.
• What will be your strategy in your personal and professional life to manage the time commitment this program requires? This can include any academic accommodations that you plan to request. Max. 250 words.
• Proof of registration as a nurse in local province or own country; and
• Curriculum Vitae .

International Applicants

The required  b accalaureate degree in nursing must be equivalent to a 4-year Canadian program.

In addition to the academic requirements, applicants must provide:

Proof of registration as a registered nurse in own country (will not be required to register with College of Nurses of Ontario). International students who are not registered in Ontario will be unable to conduct thesis research that requires registration;

Proficiency in English . Applicants whose first language is not English or who have not recently studied for at least one complete year at a post-secondary institution where English is the official language of instruction, will be required to obtain satisfactory results in an English language proficiency test, as part of the application process, and before their application will be considered complete.

Please visit the   School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am an international student who is not registered with the college of nurses of ontario, can i still apply.

As an international applicant you are not required to be registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario, but must be registered as a nurse in your own country.  If you are not registered as a nurse in Ontario during the program you will be unable to conduct thesis research that requires registration.  This limitation on thesis research topics should be considered and discussed with a potential thesis supervisor prior to submitting your application.

Can I take the program part-time?

No, this is a full-time program only. Most of the course work involved in the program occurs in the first year and most classes are organized for Mondays and Tuesdays.

How do I decide on a thesis supervisor?

The decision on a supervisor is made by the Graduate Program Committee, following discussions between you and a potential faculty supervisor. A faculty member must be able to supervise thesis research in your area of interest and be willing to do so, given their current work commitments. It is recommended that you review profiles of faculty members on the  School of Nursing website  to determine if there is someone who conducts research in your area.

Do I have to have a thesis topic before I come?

Normally, you should have a general area of research interest before you begin the program, but a specific thesis topic is developed as you engage in course work and discussions with your thesis supervisor. On occasion, an applicant may have a specific plan for research, but this is not typical.

Are there scholarships available?

The Graduate Program Committee nominates individual applicants and students for internal scholarships and awards for which they are eligible. In order to be considered for awards in the first year, your application should be completed by February 1st. You are also encouraged to apply for external scholarships and fellowships as early as possible, as some of these may then be available to you during your first year of study. These are often offered by professional organizations or associations in nursing. You may also have the opportunity to work as a teaching assistant and/or research assistant.   Contact us  if you would like more information about potential external funding. 

My experience as a student in the Doctorate of Philosophy in Nursing was so many things. The courses were taught by brilliant professors who are experts in the subject matter. I learned the fundamental skills necessary to be a successful researcher and academic. The program encourages dissemination of student research and provides opportunities for national and international networking. After completing the program, I was recruited for a tenure-track faculty position at my university of choice. I have a career that I love and the knowledge and ability to help make a difference.

Amanda Vandyk , RN, PHD (Queen’s 2013) Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, University of Ottawa

PhD in Nursing

College of nursing, shape the future of nursing.

Learn from renowned faculty members in a Top-Tier 1 Research Institution, while preparing for a career in research. Surround yourself with passionate peers.  Transform the nursing discipline by advancing the theories behind practice and delivery. 

The College of Nursing continuously generates research regarding key areas such as women's health, diabetes, health equity and accessibility, caregiving, cancer, and more.

Preparing Student for Research Careers

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing program prepares students for research careers. The distance PhD nursing program admits students who have earned a bachelor's degree with a major in nursing (BSN, BS) or a master's degree in nursing or related disciplines. The traditional BS-PhD and MS-PhD tracks share a common program of study with the exception of nine (9) additional MS cognate credits required for BS-PhD students. Occasionally the PhD program also admits cohorts of BS- and MS-PhD students with a specialty focus (such as gerontology or oncology).

The Utah Model Emphasizes:

• Synchronous distance learning
• Studying with a cohort
• Conference-based learning/on-campus intensives
• Mentorship between students and faculty with common research interests
• Year round study

Nursing Education Xchange (NEXus)

Opportunities are also offered for doctoral/graduate students, through the Nursing Education Xchange (NEXus) , enrolled at member colleges and universities to take courses that may not be offered at his/her home institution for a common price.

Synchronous Learning

The PhD program is offered through synchronous distance education technologies for all students, local and non-local. The core courses are offered utilizing live synchronous videoconferencing technology, allowing students living outside of Salt Lake City, Utah, to participate and complete the program without relocating to Utah.

Conference-Based Learning/On-Campus Intensives

All PhD students, regardless of the state or country of residence, are required to attend three (3) week-long campus immersion experiences as a cohort. Week-long immersions are held at the University of Utah campus annually during the coursework phase of the program (the first three years of study).

The initial week-long campus immersion takes place during the first week of classes and serves as an orientation to the University of Utah and PhD program (typically in late August for fall admission). Exact dates for subsequent week-long immersions vary each year. Each of the three visits has distinct objectives that align with program progression.

All PhD students, regardless of the state or country of residence, are required to attend a research conference as a cohort annually during the coursework phase of the program (the first three years of study). The research conference is chosen by PhD program faculty (exact semester, location and dates may vary depending on which conference is chosen). Each of the three conference attendance experiences is typically tied to current coursework and provides rich faculty/student mentoring and networking opportunities.

Year Round Study

The PhD program can generally be split into two parts: the coursework phase and the dissertation phase. The coursework phase of the program is nine (9) semesters year-round, which includes one to two core courses per semester. Students have the option of taking additional electives or area of specialization courses to reach full-time status (9+ credits per semester).

BS-PhD students must attend full-time for the first year of study due to the additional MS cognate work. A student's faculty advisor or dissertation committee may require additional coursework to address identified academic deficiencies and identify inter-departmental and College of Nursing courses in the student's area of specialization.

The program requires successful completion of written and oral qualifying examinations at the conclusion of formal coursework prior to admission to PhD candidacy and initiation of the dissertation. The length of time to complete the dissertation phase is variable. All coursework and the dissertation must be completed within seven (7) years.

DNP vs. PHD

Paula Meek, PhD, RN ,FAAN, ATSF Assistant Dean, PhD Programs

Program Manager Executive Associate Director - Student Services Carrie Radmall Phone: (801) 581-8798 Email: [email protected]

To consult faculty on the program of study or your research career, contact:

Assistant Dean, PhD Program Paula Meek, RN, PhD, FAAN Email: [email protected]

Curriculum & Handbooks 

• PhD Curriculum
• PhD Handbook
• Graduate Information Sessions
• Tuition & Fees
• Graduate Scholarships

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Resources For:

• Current Students
• Faculty and Staff
• Nursing Education PhD

• Extended Campus
• All Programs

An Online Nursing Education Doctoral Degree from Renowned Faculty

The Nursing Education Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is a post-master's program designed to prepare scholars for academic settings or health care organizations. You will develop excellence in teaching the discipline of nursing and engage in a research trajectory specific to nursing education. This doctoral program extends content acquired at the baccalaureate or master’s levels to emphasize knowledge development, education strategies, leadership and research.

In this program, you will draw upon the educational expertise of the university at large by utilizing curricular and research resources of other disciplines as well as those of nursing. The program requirements are distributed across three major focus areas:

• Research (generate new knowledge to advanced nursing science)
• Leadership (advance the professional discipline of nursing)
• Education (promote innovative and evidence based approaches in education)

This online program, offered by the UNC School of Nursing through Extended Campus, begins each Fall via a competitive admission process.

Preparing Nurse Educators

The Nursing Education PhD program is committed to increasing the number of doctoral-level nurse educators. Graduates of the program are qualified to fill nursing faculty positions in educational institutions and health care agencies.

The fully accredited UNC School of Nursing is widely recognized for preparing excellent nurses and teachers.

Nurse Educators are Critically Needed

According to AACN's Special Survey on Vacant Faculty Positions , as of October 2022 there were more than 2,166 faculty vacancies just among the 909 nursing schools who responded to the survey. This is up from 1,500 vacancies identified in 2016.

Institutions need qualified faculty to meet growing student demand.

I'm Ready to Apply

Credits Required: 66

Time to Completion: 4+ years

Tuition: $706/credit hour

Delivery Option & Start Term: Online + Colorado Visits: starts each Fall term

Get Started/Apply

Program coordinator.

Darcy Copeland, PhD, RN [email protected] 970-351-1930

Course of Study

Eligibility & transfer credit, costs & aid, delivered mostly online.

The Nursing Education PhD is a 66 credit hour post-master's program that can be completed mostly online in as little as four years, though many students choose to spend additional semesters on their dissertation.

• Program coursework is fully online.
• You will contribute work toward your dissertation during each semester in the program, and in the fourth year all of your coursework will center on your dissertation.

Short Colorado Visits

• There is a required 5-day orientation in July the summer before you start the program. You will spend two days in orientation on campus in Greeley and three days at the Nurse Educator Conference in the Rocky Mountains.
• Some students choose to come to campus for their dissertation proposal hearing, dissertation defense and oral comprehensive exams.

Coursework (66 Credit Hours)

For an example of upcoming courses, visit the Current Students page for this program.

For full program requirement details, see the official program listing in the UNC Graduate Catalog .

Nursing Education PhD students have the option to expand their elective coursework via NEXus (The Nursing Education Xchange) .

Admission Requirements

Possess a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in Nursing from accredited (NLN/ACEN or CCNE) programs in nursing, with a cumulative master's GPA of 3.00 or better (4.00 scale).

If you are still completing your master's degree at the time you apply, admission will be based on your current cumulative GPA, and you will need to re-submit your official transcript (showing your conferred degree and final GPA) during your first semester. If your final GPA fell below 3.00, you will be given additional academic stipulations to remain enrolled at UNC.

Note: the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is NOT required for this program.

Licensure as a registered nurse.

One to two years of teaching experience recommended, but not required, prior to program enrollment.

Eligibility by State

At this time, UNC can provide distance education to students from every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. UNC cannot provide distance education in American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau.

Certain distance education activities that occur outside of Colorado may have additional state approval processes or requirements. This most commonly occurs for experiential learning placement activities such as practica, internships, student teaching, and healthcare clinicals. Please review the State Authorization (SARA) page for additional information on UNC’s ability to offer distance education across state lines and a list of activities and states where approval may be required. For additional information or questions, please contact [email protected] .

International Student Eligibility

International students residing outside of the United States are eligible to apply to our online programs. Applicants for online programs must demonstrate English proficiency, or enroll in the UNC Intensive English Program , in order to be considered.

This program requires occasional visits to the United States. You will need to submit financial documentation before you plan to arrive in the U.S. (and again each time you travel to the U.S.). The financial documentation needs to demonstrate that you can pay for the cost of tuition and living expenses for the days that you will be in the U.S.

Please visit the International Students Admission Requirements page for details about English proficiency requirements, financial documentation and applying as an international student.

Transferring Credit

UNC graduate school accepts applicable graduate credit with a grade of C or higher from accredited institutions. Please note that if your chosen program has a higher grade minimum for any program coursework, that minimum would apply to transfer requests for those courses. Graduate program faculty are responsible for reviewing any proposed transfer credit to ensure that course content and objectives match program content.

• Students must complete at least 50% of their graduate program credits at UNC, not including research, capstone, seminar, internship/externship/practicum, thesis, dissertation proposal, dissertation and any credits graded with S/U (P/F).
• Courses requested for transfer must not be more than eight years old for doctoral degree credit; will not be used to meet any residency requirements; are not used in calculation of the grade point average; and cannot have been used to fulfill requirements for a previously awarded degree. See the full Graduate Transfer Credit Policy .

This is an Extended Campus program, which means:

• A flat per-credit tuition rate for all students (in-state or out-of-state)
• There are no student fees – they are incorporated into our flat tuition rate
• Certain courses, such as clinical and practicum courses, may carry specific course fees for additional services and materials

Program tuition for the 2023-24 academic year (which runs Fall, Spring, and Summer terms) is $706 per credit hour. Tuition for the 2024-25 academic year will be determined mid-June 2024.

Estimates of additional costs: For the purposes of determining financial aid, UNC follows Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) and federal guidelines to develop an estimated, average Cost of Attendance (budget) for different student classifications. For your personal tuition estimates, we recommend using the program-specific tuition information above. But UNC's official Cost of Attendance/ Student Budgets page can help you identify other estimated expenses for which you may be responsible while completing your program.

Financial Aid

Degree-seeking students who cannot pay for tuition alone are encouraged to apply for federal financial aid. Students must first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The UNC FAFSA/financial aid page for graduate students has key dates and support, including the release date and deadline for each academic year (a Fall-Spring-Summer cycle which begins each August).

Late submissions of the FAFSA are still accepted throughout the school year but you may not be considered for the maximum amount of aid. If the priority deadline has passed for the upcoming/current school year, we encourage you to apply for FAFSA consideration as soon as you enroll for your first courses. Depending on the time of year, you may be able to submit an application for the current academic year and an early/priority application for the following academic year.

Doctoral degree students must be enrolled in a minimum of 5 credits per academic term for financial aid eligibility. Full time enrollment is based on 9 credits per term.

To apply for federal financial aid assistance

Fill out the FAFSA form at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

For more specific help, contact the Office of Financial Aid:  [email protected] , 970-351-4862  or via the UNC Financial Aid website .

Students can also find helpful information such as the Guide to Federal Student Aid at https://studentaid.gov/resources . Most of the resources are available in English, Spanish and Braille.

Student Health Insurance

The University of Northern Colorado offers a Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) to all degree-seeking students who enroll in courses on our main UNC Campus, an Extended Campus Center, or Online.

Degree-seeking graduate students enrolled in 6 or more credit hours will automatically receive this benefit each term. SHIP premiums will appear on your semester bill. If you have comparable insurance coverage, and do not want to be charged for SHIP coverage, you must opt out of this plan each Fall via an online waiver process .

Please visit the UNC Student Health Insurance pages for more information about the insurance plan.

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Additional Resources

• Learn more about the School of Nursing Faculty .

Other Related Programs

• Nursing DNP (Post-Master's Doctoral)
• Nursing Education (Post-Master's Certificate)

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PhD Nursing Studies

The PhD Nursing Studies programme is an advanced postgraduate research degree for students wishing to conduct in-depth independent research on an area to contribute to nursing knowledge and evidence. It offers the student a chance to make a significant contribution to knowledge in nursing.

Please check the  postgraduate Degree Finder  to see the specific entry requirements, start date and application deadlines. 

The PhD programme offers the possibility to work with and be supervised by a range of academics across many areas of Nursing Studies, who have international reputations and outstanding publications in their areas of expertise. Our programme is undertaken over three years full-time or six years part-time.   

In the first year, students typically choose a number of optional taught postgraduate courses from within the School of Health, or other Schools within the University, as appropriate to their research programme, and as agreed with their supervisor. Subsequent years of the PhD programme primarily focus on recruitment of study participants, data collection and analysis of the main research, which can then be written up and completed by the end of the third year.

Current Student Research

Why choose this programme.

This programme is an advanced research degree enabling students to conduct in-depth independent research on a topic of their choice, thereby contributing to the knowledge and evidence base for nursing worldwide. Our current and past students have contributed to a range of research areas within nursing and healthcare more broadly. 

A vibrant and inclusive research environment

The University of Edinburgh is a world-leader in research and innovation and an international centre of academic excellence. Students on this programme will become part of an active and diverse research community in the School of Health in Social Science and will have access to the wide-range of learning environments and outstanding resources that the University has to offer. Our postgraduate researchers work in close proximity to each other, enabling them to pool their expertise and knowledge to tackle complex challenges and push the boundaries of discovery. Students will be encouraged to engage with a wide range of seminars, talks, and events, and often have the opportunity to present their own research at national and international conferences. Our student-led postgraduate research blog provides a snapshot of the activities and events our PGR students organise and are involved in.

Find out more about ongoing research in our School

Our main areas of research activity and development in Nursing Studies currently relate to the themes of experience of health and illness, and organisation and policy for person-centred care. We have expertise in a range of qualitative and quantitative and mixed methods research approaches.

Supervisor Specialties:

Policy, professions and care, sudden interruptions in health, global public health, social justice and health inequity, phd by distance.

There is also an opportunity to undertake this programme through our PhD by Distance option. The PhD by Distance is available to suitably qualified applicants in the same areas as our on-campus programmes: Clinical and Health Psychology, Counselling and Psychotherapy, Health in Social Science and Nursing Studies.

The programme allows students who are unable to commit to basing themselves in Edinburgh full time to study for a PhD in a field of Health in Social Science from their home country or city - however this is not intended to be a fully online distance learning programme.

Students enrolled on this programme will be expected to come to Edinburgh at least once per year of study to meet with their supervisors. The length and timing of these visits are negotiable but students should expect to spend at least two weeks at the University of Edinburgh during each year of study.

Find out more about the PhD by Distance

Join our extraordinary Nursing Community

Nursing offers a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment as it involves caring for and making a positive difference in the lives of others. We are one of the top ten universities in the UK to offer Nursing, and our students' experience is second to none. Find out what it's like to join our close-knit community of international students and staff at the University of Edinburgh.

Find out more about our Nursing Community

The School of Health in Social Science offers several fully funded MScR and PhD studentships each year. A variety of scholarships are available, which vary from full scholarships covering tuition fees and a stipend to cover living expenses, to partial scholarships.

Find out more about our scholarships and funding opportunities

Beyond the programme  

The PhD Nursing Studies offers many opportunities. For instance, graduates who complete a PhD in nursing have gone on to obtain roles as a Director or leader in a variety of healthcare organizations, where they may supervise nursing research or projects. This can also include working for the government, where they may get an opportunity to influence healthcare policy and practice.  

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Online doctor of nursing education.

Ohio State's online Doctor of Nursing Education program qualifies master’s-prepared nurses to become expert nurse educational leaders in academia or healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, home care, or communities.

Students in this flexible, yet rigorous program take courses in clinical instruction, assessment, and evaluation, as well as instructional design for nursing education. The program culminates in a hands-on final project demonstrating the achievement of doctoral-level outcomes. 

Choose between the Academic Nursing Education specialization or the Nursing Professional Development specialization to customize your program to match your career goals. Whether you want to become an expert nurse educational leader in academia or healthcare, this program will prepare you to plan, implement, and evaluate the best evidence for nursing-specific instruction.

Campus Requirements: NONE – 100% online.

Class Format:  Most classes are offered in a synchronous format, meaning you have a scheduled date and time you must log in to attend.

Credit Hours Required:  50

Cost Per Credit Hour:  $1,158.58 (includes instructional, general, and program fees).  See the full cost breakdown here.

Admission Requirements:  Completed master's degree in nursing, an active RN license or APRN certification, and a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale in the last degree earned relevant to the program of study.

Time to Completion:  Five semesters (2 years) of full-time study or eight semesters (3 years) of part-time study.

Can You Really Get a Nursing Degree Online?

Trauma nurse advances career with online dnp program, program tracks, academic nursing education.

The academic nursing education track is developed for nurses with earned master’s degrees who seek to teach in college or university level academic nursing programs to prepare nurses for clinical practice at all levels.  

Nursing Professional Development

The nursing professional development track is targeted to masters-level nursing professional development practitioners (NDPs) who seek doctoral preparation to educate nurses in healthcare settings to enhance healthcare outcomes.

Sample Courses

Principles of instructional design for nurses, policy, ethics, and legal considerations in nursing education, innovation in nursing practice and education, publication and grant writing in nursing education, featured faculty.

Carolyn Schubert, MS, DNP, CNE

Wendy Bowles, PhD, RN, APRN-CNP, CNE

Tara Spalla King PhD, RN

Tara O'Brien PhD, RN, CNE

Is this program offered in my state, the selected program is available in the following states.

If you live outside Ohio and are planning to earn a professional license via this program, click on the state where you plan to seek licensure for important information.

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Still have questions? Inquire for the answers you need .

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PhD/MPhil Nursing / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

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We require:

• An honours degree (minimum Upper Second (2:1)) or the overseas equivalent in a relevant subject
• AND a very good MSc/MPhil/MRes degree from a recognised institution
• OR satisfactory work at postgraduate level (which must include some research training) undertaken for the equivalent of at least one year full-time.

NB In exceptional circumstances, we may consider an application from a student without both an undergraduate and post-graduate degree. For example, if they have a first/distinction and research experience. 

We also have a four-year programme which is strongly recommended for anyone who:

• has not studied in the UK before;
• has not completed specific research methods training at master's level and received 'very good' grades;
• has not completed a research dissertation at master's level and received 'very good' grades;
• has not scored at least 6.5 in all areas of the IELTS (or equivalent) if English is not their first language.

Full entry requirements

See full guidance on how to choose a project and submit an application on our websi te . You should then complete the online admissions application form to apply for this programme. Ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, or this may delay the processing of your application.

Application deadlines

You must submit your application for a postgraduate research programme before the relevant deadline to be considered. You will not be able to apply after these deadlines have passed.

• January entry: 15 October (of the year prior entry)
• April entry: 15 January (year of entry)
• September entry: 15 June (year of entry)

Programme options

Programme overview.

• Learn from some of Europe's leading researchers while undertaking your own project.
• Access some of the best research facilities in the world at both the University and in hospitals around Greater Manchester.
• Undergo training in transferable skills critical to developing early-stage researchers and professionals through the Doctoral Academy's training programme.
• Conduct research at a university ranked 6th in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2023).

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): Standard £4,786, Low £11,000, Medium £17,500, High £23,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £27,000, Low £28,500, Medium £34,500, High £40,500
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): Standard £2393, Low £5,500, Medium £8,750, High £11,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £13,500, Low £14,250, Medium £17,250, High £20,250
• PhD (full-time distance learning) UK students (per annum): Standard £4,786, Low £11,000, Medium £17,500, High £23,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £27,000, Low £28,500, Medium £34,500, High £40,500
• PhD (part-time distance learning) UK students (per annum): Standard £2393, Low £5,500, Medium £8,750, High £11,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £13,500, Low £14,250, Medium £17,250, High £20,250

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

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DEGREES & PROGRAMS

Online Degrees From an Accredited University, in Less Time

An online school built for students like you.

WGU is an online school with career-aligned bachelor's and master's degrees in—IT, teaching, business, and healthcare—designed to help working professionals fit an online university education into their busy lives. Find the degree that's the perfect fit for you.

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Wgu school of business.

Expand your skill set for the 21st century with a respected business degree from WGU. Our online degrees and programs offer online schooling options for both experienced business professionals and motivated learners driven to advance their careers. WGU makes business school more attainable than ever before by utilizing competency-based education so students can progress in their courses as quickly as they master the material. Students don't have to log into classes, so they can do their coursework any time, day or night. This means they can keep their job, maintain their personal lives, and get a degree at the same time.

WGU School of Education

Whether you're an aspiring teacher or an experienced educator ready to advance your career, WGU's CAEP-accredited Teachers College has a teaching degree for you. Choose from more than 30 bachelor's, post-baccalaureate, endorsement-preparation, and master's degree programs in education. WGU prepares you for teacher licensure in all 50 states and will help ensure that you are ready for the classroom. For online degrees in education, WGU is a great fit.

WGU School of Technology

Today's complex, ever-changing field of information technology requires you to demonstrate superior IT knowledge, keep up-to-date with certifications, and hold a relevant degree from an accredited online university. Out of many online education options, WGU is a smarter way for IT professionals to earn that online degree—with certifications included in most programs, at no extra cost. Enhance your résumé with a degree and certs at WGU.

WGU Leavitt School of Health

Earn a nursing or healthcare degree at WGU and fill a vital role in today's dynamic healthcare environment. Despite a changing economy, healthcare and nursing continue to experience strong job growth. This growth represents a great opportunity for you to further your career by completing a bachelor's or master's degree in a field like nursing, health information management, or healthcare management.

This Online University was Made for You

At WGU, our focus is on your success—as an online student and a graduate. WGU has been one-of-a-kind from the start.

We’re the first university where all bachelor’s and master’s degrees are competency-based.  It’s an innovative approach that measures learning, not class time, and it works particularly well for adult learners. Plus, our online college courses are designed with input and guidance from industry leaders and employers, so you know you're learning what you need to know to be successful. It will be rigorous, hard work—and it will be worth it!

We are the nation’s only university created by 19 U.S. governors . Their vision: Help change the lives of working adults by giving them access to a high-quality, affordable higher education that fits into their busy lives.

We believe higher education should be affordable for everyone.  WGU is a nonprofit university with tuition well below what other reputable universities charge—about $8,010 per year for most bachelor's programs. Our flat-rate tuition model means you complete as many courses as you can in a term without paying more, so graduating faster also means graduating for less.

"WGU is upending the traditional college experience, and has the potential to change the way universities—both new and old—think about learning.”

-The Atlantic

It’s Not About Class Time, It's About Learning

WGU’s approach to learning is designed to fit your learning style, your schedule, your life. All of our online degree programs are competency-based, which means you’ll earn your online degree as soon as you can demonstrate that you’ve mastered the material. Competency-based education (CBE) measures actual knowledge, not time spent in class.

Finish Courses by Proving What You Know, as Soon as You're Ready

With competency-based education at WGU, success is measured by actual learning, not class time. You advance by demonstrating that you've mastered the course subject matter—whether you learned it here or picked it up through years of work experience.

Your progress through a course is driven by you.

How quickly you learn.

The time you are able to devote to studying.

How much previous knowledge you bring.

You’ll read, complete assignments, write papers, and take tests, just as you would at other universities. But, in most cases, your online learning progress won’t be tied to a class schedule—you can move quickly through material you already know and take the time you need to learn the things that don’t come as easily to you.

Have Questions About WGU or Online Universities?

Check out our online colleges FAQ or online university guide to get the full picture of choosing an online education pathway.

Programs Begin the 1st of any Month

WGU enrolls new students at the beginning of each month, launching a new term for those students. A term at WGU is 6 months long. What does this mean for you? You can start when you’re ready, rather than rushing (or waiting) for fall or spring enrollment. So, it’s back-to-school time year-round at WGU! Just enroll by the 15th to be eligible to begin next month.

A Fast-Track Career Begins with a First-Rate Education

To advance in your career—or to start a new one—you don’t just need a degree. You also need respected credentials and real-world skills. Our curriculum does that by taking learning to a new level.

Our courses are designed in collaboration with major employers and industry experts in healthcare, business, information technology, and education. What you’ll learn is what the marketplace wants. Our competency-based approach to learning ensures that you’ll master the material—making you better prepared to succeed in your career.

Employers appreciate WGU grads. We’ve been endorsed by corporations such as AT&T, HP, Hospital Corporation of America, and Microsoft. We’ve also been praised by the likes of  Harvard Business Review ,  Forbes ,  Time ,  Fast Company , CNN, MSNBC, and  Bloomberg Businessweek —as well as officials and elected leaders all the way up to the White House.

Prepared for Success on the Job

*From a 2023  Harris Poll of 300 employers of WGU graduates.

100% of employers said that WGU graduates were prepared for their jobs.*

97% of employers said that they would hire another WGU grad.*

98% of employers said WGU graduates met or exceeded expectations.*

WGU “is consummately focused on actual student learning far more so than almost any other university in the world.”

-Forbes Magazine

Frequently Asked Questions at WGU

• Tuition and Financial Aid
• Learning at WGU
• Online Learning at WGU
• Admissions & Enrollment

Does WGU offer financial aid?

WGU is approved to offer  federal student aid . You will need to apply using the FAFSA, which is used to determine your eligibility for aid. WGU’s FAFSA school code is 033394.

Are there scholarships available?

Scholarships are available for new WGU students and returning graduates.  This video shows more  about scholarship opportunities and how they can help you pay for school. Get information on:

• How to apply
• Eligibility requirements
• Examples of scholarships
• What happens after you apply
• Other financial aid options

How does tuition work at WGU?

WGU's tuition is a flat rate that is charged every six months. You can take as many courses as you are able in that six-month term—with no extra cost. You simply pay for the term and do as much work as you can or want to during that time. This means that finishing faster helps you save money—a major benefit you won't find at most other schools. 

How do I communicate with my mentor?

You will be expected to maintain regular communication with your Program Mentor while enrolled at WGU. 

During a student's first term, the Program Mentor and student meet once each week by phone for a substantive discussion about engaging learning resources and assessments until the student achieves on-time progress (OTP).

After the first term, for students who meet and maintain on-time progress (OTP), the Program Mentor and student meet at least once every two weeks by phone for a substantive discussion about engaging learning resources and assessments.

For students on financial aid warning, probation, or termination, the Program Mentor and student meet at least once each week by phone for a substantive discussion about engaging learning resources and assessments until the student achieves OTP.

Is this program truly "at your own pace"?

WGU offers flexible pacing, meaning you can move through courses at a  pace that meets your learning style and knowledge level . Students can go as fast as they can but not as slowly. Students are required to complete a minimum number of competency units per term to meet on-time progress. However, if you choose to study at 3 am daily, that we can accommodate. 

How quickly can you finish the program?

Your personal progress will be determined by the extent of your transfer units, your time commitment, and your determination to proceed at a faster rate. Traditionally, without an associate’s degree or equivalent, it will take 2 to 2.5 years. Master's degree programs are designed to be completed within 2 years. However, we work on a  competency-based model,  which gives you credit for passing assessments and proving you can perform a task or understand a course of study proficiently. 

Can you skip ahead if you get done early?

Yes! If you are able to complete the minimum requirement before your term is over, you can add more courses, with no  tuition increase.

Is WGU accredited?

Yes! WGU is  institutionally accredited  by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), the highest form of accreditation.

How is an online college different than an on-campus college?

An accredited online college offers the same valuable and respected degrees that an on-campus college offers. The main difference is that online colleges offer you flexibility in your program. For example, you don't have to go to campus and sit in a classroom. You can move faster through courses. You are largely independent in your education. These are benefits that help many students pursue degrees who may not be able to attend an on-campus college.

How long does it take to complete an online degree?

It depends on the type of degree and online school you choose. Some online bachelor's degree programs will take 4+ years, and some online master's degrees will take 2+ years.

However, WGU is designed to help students accelerate their online degrees. Our unique education model allows students to move through courses as quickly as they can master the material. This means that, on average, students finish bachelor's degree programs in three years or less, and master's degree programs in 18 months or less.

Source: WGU internal data

What is the best online college?

We may be biased, but we believe WGU is truly the  best online college . Our unique education model, affordable tuition, and complete flexibility mean that students are truly in charge of their own education.

What can I do with an online degree?

An online degree helps you learn skills and earn credentials that will boost your résumé and prepare you for a meaningful career. Either a bachelor's or master's degree will be key in helping you be prepared for a new job, promotion, or salary increase. The specific jobs you can be qualified for with an online degree will depend on the specific degree you pursue.

How is an online college different from an on-campus college?

An accredited online college offers the same valuable and respected degrees that an on-campus college offers. The main difference is that online colleges offer you  flexibility in your program . For example, you don't have to go to campus and sit in a classroom. You can move faster through courses. You are largely independent in your education. These are benefits that help many students pursue degrees who may not be able to attend an on-campus college.

It depends on the type of degree and online school you choose. Some online bachelor's degree programs will take 4+ years, and some online master's degrees will take 2+ years. However, WGU is designed to help students accelerate their online degrees. Our unique education model allows students to move through courses as quickly as they can master the material. This means that on average students finish bachelor's degree programs in three years or less, and master's degree programs in 18 months or less.

Are online universities expensive?

Typically online universities are able to offer less expensive tuition compared to brick and mortar universities. This is often because there are less building maintenance requirements, staffing needs, living expenses for students, etc. At WGU for example, tuition for an undergraduate program is approximately $4,005 for a six-month term. This is much lower than most online and traditional degree programs.

Do all my existing credits transfer to WGU?

WGU has a  generous transfer policy . Our transcripts department can accept official copies of transcripts from your previous educational institutions for a course-by-course evaluation that compares the context of your courses to those in our programs, to tell you what is comparable and transferable.

What will be needed for admissions?

It depends on the program you are interested in pursuing. Some programs will have additional requirements however, the  general admissions process  is as follows: 

• Complete the enrollment application
• Contact Enrollment at 866-225-5948 to go over the program and admissions process specific to your desired degree program
• Submit official transcripts
• If desired, complete FAFSA form for financial aid

How soon can I start?

The enrollment process can take approximately 4-6 weeks. Start dates are the first of each month once enrollment has been completed.

Will another school or employer accept my WGU degree?

Every school sets its own guidelines however, accreditation plays a big part in recognition and acceptance. WGU is institutionally  accredited  by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), the highest form of accreditation. WGU graduates go on to continue their education at many colleges and universities. When WGU alumni self-report acceptance into graduate or doctorate programs,  we add the university to a list  so you can see where WGU graduates are continuing to pursue higher education.

Online Degrees Won't Mean You'll be Alone

College is challenging, and even the best students need help from time to time. To steer students toward success we created a unique support system—it’s consistent, dedicated, and personalized.

Faculty mentoring from day one through graduation.   Your Program Mentor will help you develop an online degree plan that works for you, and then help you stick to it. Through regular, ongoing interaction and instruction from enrollment to graduation, they will advise and guide you through your chosen program.

Subject-matter experts for every course.   In every course you take, you’ll also have access to instruction from faculty members who serve as a subject-matter experts and guides through the curriculum.  Use them for one-on-one or cohort-based help to get you resolve sticking points so you can truly master the learning material.

We’re student-obsessed, and proud of it.  Our innovative support structure extends to all aspects of your student experience, including an IT help desk, student support, and centers to provide help with writing and math, counseling, budgeting, and more.

Enrolling in a College Degree Program is Scary—That's a Good Thing

The very real benefits of earning an online college degree are many. Here's one you may not have thought of: pushing yourself outside your comfort zone. Doing something that scares you is a great way to "exercise your bravery muscle," as Reshma Saujani—who founded her groundbreaking organization Girls Who Code despite having just lost an election and having no experience with coding—recently told an audience at a lecture series hosted by WGU.

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Accredited Online Colleges

Find a trustworthy and flexible online college learning option that works best for you using U.S. News rankings, data and expert advice.

Online college is no longer just an option for many students – it has become the norm. Experts say colleges are poised to offer even more online degree programs and develop new ones as well. Advancements in technology, course design and high-speed internet availability are moving online learning forward. One reason students enroll in online degree programs is for the flexibility to study from anywhere. Students with family responsibilities or full-time jobs may also be able to work around their own schedules. Online students need to have good time management skills and be able to overcome distractions in their environment. Though online formats still present students with unique challenges, accredited institutions usually offer tailored support for students to adjust to online courses and plan their academic futures however they learn.

Online College Degree Programs

Earning a bachelor's degree – in person or online – can open doors to employment opportunities. According to the National Center for Education Statistics , the employment rate among 25- to 34-year-olds in the U.S. with a bachelor's degree or higher was at 87% in 2022. Compare that with the 73% employment rate for those with only a high school diploma. In fall 2020, about 11.8 million of all undergraduate students were enrolled in at least one distance education courses at degree-granting postsecondary institutions, and 7 million were enrolled exclusively in online classes, according to the National Center for Education Statistics . Students in online programs usually earn the same degree as on-campus students. The curriculum for an online bachelor’s degree typically matches the on-campus curriculum at the same school, and the diploma usually doesn’t state whether that specific degree was earned online or in person. This can help ease fears that employers won’t accept applicants with online undergraduate degrees. Many online bachelor’s programs require students to complete general education requirements in the arts, humanities and sciences if they haven’t already done so at another college or university. Prospective students will likely need to decide between a liberal arts major and one that is more career-focused, with the latter being the route many take to change career fields or advance professionally. Still, experts say it may make sense for some online students to major in a liberal arts discipline if it’s a subject they are truly passionate about. Academic advisers can offer guidance on which route is best for you.

Pros and Cons of Online Degrees

Students can take classes virtually, allowing them to learn anywhere.

Students can pursue the best program for their field of study, even if the school is far from home.

Students can plan around busy schedules to complete their coursework.

Students need greater self-motivation, time management skills and discipline to complete coursework.

There's no face-to-face interaction with an instructor.

Networking with classmates may be difficult.

An online degree can be a great choice for students who want to continue their education and have either an associate degree or no postsecondary education. A variety of online bachelor’s programs exist, so prospective students should explore all options before enrolling. Those who want to earn their online degree as quickly as possible may wish to pursue a competency-based program or one with an accelerated schedule. The majority of incoming online undergraduates have previously earned some college credits. Individuals in this group should check early in the process whether the prospective online program will accept those credits. Students with an undergraduate degree also can earn a master’s degree completely online. This path is a great choice for working professionals who want to advance in their career or change fields completely. You can find out more through U.S. News’ best online master’s degrees rankings and resources.

What Current Online College Students Say

Olga Nikuradze , senior at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, class of 2023, Bachelor of Science in data science.

Diana Mansfield , senior at Unity Environmental University, class of 2024, Bachelor of Science in marine biology and sustainable aquaculture.

Jennifer Rose , senior at Indiana University, class of 2026, Bachelor of Science in informatics.

How to Choose the Best Online College for You

The best online college is the one that fits your needs. As you’re evaluating programs, consider how each school’s research, resources and reputation line up with your career interests and goals. An online program’s accreditation, tuition and flexibility are other factors that come into play. A good place to start your research is the U.S. News rankings of accredited online bachelor's programs . Once you narrow down what colleges you’re interested in, make sure the programs are in your ideal format – whether that’s fully online or a hybrid model. Review admission requirements and application fees and compare the availability of financial aid. Look into the school’s costs beyond tuition, including book, course material and online delivery fees, and research its student services and faculty.

Check the Accreditation Status of the School or Program

When choosing an online degree program, prospective students should ensure the school is accredited by an organization recognized by either the U.S. Department of Education or the nonprofit Council for Higher Education Accreditation. These organizations monitor programs and schools and renew their accreditation every few years. The Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs contains information from recognized accrediting agencies and state approval agencies that reported to the U.S. Department of Education. Information regarding whether an online degree program is accredited is often available on a school’s website. Accreditation is a process that an outside authority conducts to ensure a school or degree program – either on campus, online or a combination of both – meets certain standards of quality and rigor. Accreditation is a voluntary process, though it has several benefits and essentially validates a program to employers and other institutions. There are a few types of accreditation , but the main two are regional and national. Designated regional agencies determine whether a school is regionally accredited. This is a widely recognized type of accreditation. Credits transfer easily between regionally accredited schools. National accreditation is usually less rigorous and awarded to schools of a similar type, like vocational or technical institutions. For-profit online programs are more likely to have national accreditation. Credits from a nationally accredited college are not transferable to a regionally accredited college. Students can speak with their academic adviser to learn more about what types of accreditation are expected from employers in a given career field. Employers may verify that a job candidate’s degree comes from an accredited program, especially if the school name is unfamiliar to them. Should a student decide to change programs, a transfer-friendly school is more likely to accept course credits that come from an accredited institution.

Choose a College Major

Choosing an undergraduate major can seem daunting. As you research options, think about what subjects you enjoy and what majors might prepare you for careers you’d want to pursue. Make sure you understand how salary may vary by field over the course of a career. The right major can set you up for success in college and beyond. The six most common bachelor’s degrees earned in 2020-21, according to the National Center for Education Statistics , were business, health professions and related programs, social sciences and history, biological and biomedical sciences, psychology, and engineering. Students who receive bachelor’s degrees in certain engineering fields have some of the highest starting salaries. According to U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard data on students who received federal financial aid, computer engineering, petroleum engineering and industrial engineering majors make a median starting salary of more than $65,000 per year. Students shouldn’t pick an area of study solely because it is popular or high earning. The same goes for online graduate students – they should weigh the professional benefits of an advanced degree. Those with job experience should consider their professional goals when deciding what to study.

Determine Which Online Learning Option Works for You

The structure of online degree programs varies. That’s why prospective students must research a program thoroughly to ensure it meets their needs. In general, however, online courses require students to regularly log in to a learning management system, or LMS. This is a virtual portal that serves as a classroom, where students can access relevant course materials and monitor their progress on lessons. Different formats require different levels of communication with fellow students. Online students may interact with each other through a variety of channels, including discussion forums, social media, videoconferencing, by phone and through email. Students should not expect an online class to be easier than an on-campus one just because of the format. Programs may require students to attend what are often referred to as synchronous class sessions. These sessions are held in real time through videoconferencing, which can help students interact and build relationships with their classmates and the instructor. This type of program’s activities adhere to a preset schedule of classes, lectures, conversations and assignments. Most online courses have an asynchronous, or self-paced, component. Students complete readings, listen to lectures and participate in discussions with classmates whenever they wish but must follow weekly deadlines. Open-schedule courses give students the freedom to begin courses whenever they want and complete assignments based on their start date. Students don’t adhere to regular semester dates. In this format, communication with other students can be sparse. Students working full time might find the convenience and flexibility of open-schedule courses the most desirable. Then there’s fixed-time courses where students attend all classes virtually, with no in-person meetings required, but must log on to attend class at specific times. This format is the best for those who want the structure of a set schedule but need the class to be entirely online. Lastly, hybrid online courses allow students to do coursework remotely but require a few in-person meetings.

Top Online Colleges

U.S. News evaluated several factors to rank the best online bachelor's degree programs, including graduation rates, faculty credentials and support services available remotely.

Find an Online College

Use the filters below to search ranked online degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

How to Get Financial Aid for Online College

1. Submit the FAFSA. To receive financial aid, the first and most important step is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. This is available online on Oct. 1 each year. To receive the most financial aid possible, prospective students should check school and state grant deadlines and apply early. The FAFSA requires applicants to fill in basic information, such as their contact information and Social Security number, as well as provide their latest federal income tax returns and bank statements. Undergraduate students who are younger than 24 years old – and not married, veterans or active military members – will need to file as a dependent and provide their parents’ financial information. Nearly all students who apply for financial aid qualify for some form of it. 2. Fill out other financial aid forms and apply for scholarships. Many colleges offer their own source of financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships and loans. You may need to fill out additional forms to receive this aid. This information – including deadlines – is generally available on a school’s website. Applicants can also search online for scholarships available at specific schools or from organizations tied to their discipline. Online learners may be eligible for the same scholarships available to on-campus students, and there may even be additional scholarships for online or adult learners. 3. Review and correct the FAFSA Student Aid Report. A few days after submitting the FAFSA online, applicants will receive a Student Aid Report from the Federal Student Aid office. This report restates answers that applicants provided as well as other relevant information, and it’s an opportunity for applicants to correct any errors on the FAFSA, including adding or removing colleges. 4. Compare awards. Each school will calculate applicants’ financial need, which determines their financial aid eligibility. Students will receive an award letter stating what financial aid they are being offered. They can compare their award packages based on the aid they are eligible to receive, the school’s tuition and other costs. 5. Reapply for financial aid each year. To continue receiving financial aid each year, applicants need to fill out the FAFSA annually for as long as they plan to be a student. A degree can be a major investment, and financial aid can help ease the burden of costly tuition. Much like financial aid for on-campus students, aid for online students is available in the form of grants, scholarships, loans and even federal work-study jobs. That said, some online degree programs may not offer work-study opportunities, as many online students are already working full time. The online degree financial aid process is often identical to that of students earning a degree in person. Online students also need to meet similar – if not the same – requirements to be eligible for financial aid at a given school. Additionally, whether a student is full- or part-time can affect that person’s ability to qualify for financial aid. To receive certain amounts or types of aid, many online programs require students to meet specific credit-hour requirements. Applying for financial aid is a complex process. In a 2022 survey of online students by Wiley University Services, 36% of online students indicated that determining how to pay for school was the most difficult part of the application process, while 27% said completing financial aid forms was the hardest. Luckily, accredited online colleges often have financial aid advisers to answer questions and help applicants through the process. To learn more, read U.S. News’ paying for college coverage . There you’ll find expert advice and resources to help you through the process.

How to Apply to Online College

The admissions process for online college is usually similar to that of on-campus programs. Step 1: Fill out the Common App. To start, you’ll need to fill out the application. At the bachelor’s level, the Common Application is accepted by more than 900 schools, including some colleges outside the U.S. It’s likely that an online degree-seeking student will also need to complete this application. Because master’s degree applications are usually tied to a specific program in a school, what application students need to complete may vary. Step 2: Write essays. Applicants at both levels will likely have to submit an essay of some kind. Because many online students already have some work experience, experts recommend that they emphasize their professional skills as part of their application and explain how their experience has prepared them for online college. Step 3: Collect letters of recommendation. Undergraduate and graduate online programs often require letters of recommendation . These may come not only from teachers and school counselors but also current or previous employers who can speak to a student’s work ethic. At the graduate level, a recommendation letter will more likely come from an employer. Step 4: Submit test scores. Applicants may need to submit standardized test scores as part of their application. Many undergraduate online students already have some previously earned college credits and therefore may be able to forgo submitting an SAT or ACT entrance exam score if enough of their credits transfer. At the graduate level, whether the GMAT or GRE graduate school entry exam is required depends on the school and area of study. Some may not require any test scores. This information is typically available on a program’s website. Consult an admissions officer at schools of interest to determine the exact requirements. Step 5: Submit transcripts. Students also may need to submit school transcripts and, depending on the program’s requirements, their prior work experience and previously earned credit hours. Note that just because a program is offered online doesn’t guarantee that getting admitted will be easier. Step 6: Keep track of deadlines. Make sure you follow directions carefully and keep track of deadlines for the school’s admissions application, financial aid and test score submission. Prospective students can find deadline information on each school’s website. Because online program academic calendars may be structured differently from on-campus offerings, deadlines may differ for these applicants.

How to Avoid Online College Scams

Beware of diploma mills, which award illegitimate degrees or certificates to students on the internet. Among the most important steps a prospective student can take is to ensure an online degree program is accredited by an organization recognized by either the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. It’s also essential to look for red flags on a program’s website. Anything that seems too good to be true – earning a degree in a very short time period, for instance, or at an extremely low cost – is a warning sign. The opposite is also true: If a program seems abnormally expensive, conduct further research. Other red flags include a program not listing a campus or business address online, the website having a lot of grammatical or spelling errors or lacking a “.edu” URL, and the school failing to post information about student support services.

For-Profit Online Colleges

When exploring programs, a prospective student may encounter for-profit and nonprofit schools. Students may perceive for-profit online colleges as a more financially risky option, but experts recommend taking what they hear in the media and through word-of-mouth with a grain of salt. For-profit online schools became more prevalent in the late 1990s. At the time, these schools accepted most applicants, including those who weren’t prepared for college. This contributed to low graduation rates and higher debt, as well as a negative reputation toward for-profit schools. That’s changed in recent years, however, as these schools began placing a greater emphasis on student support services and started requiring some students to take entrance exams to gauge their college readiness. Experts say for-profit and nonprofit schools are becoming increasingly similar, but a few primary differences remain. For one, experts say, admissions are typically less selective at for-profit schools. These online colleges are more likely than nonprofits to have rolling admissions, along with academic calendars that don’t operate around the traditional semester schedule. For-profit institutions tend to have national rather than regional accreditation. Experts recommend looking beyond the nonprofit and for-profit classification when choosing an online degree program. Instead, they say, focus on accreditation, tuition, faculty and support services. Prospective students can also look at reviews of different for-profit programs to get a sense of other students' experiences.

For-Profit Schools

• Historically had a negative reputation due to lower graduation rates and high student debt.
• More likely to have national versus regional accreditation, which is preferred by employers.
• Less competitive in the application process than nonprofit schools.

Non-Profit Schools

• Have historically prioritized student support.
• Are more likely to be regionally accredited compared with nonprofit programs.
• Require students to demonstrate readiness through a more competitive application process.

Online Colleges Near Me

While online education offers students the opportunity to study from anywhere in the world, many students still choose a program with a campus close to home. Cost is a big factor in staying local. Online programs at public universities and colleges often charge different tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. For example, the University of Florida charges in-state residents $112 per credit hour for enrollment of its online programs, while residents of other states pay $500 per credit hour. That’s a significant savings for Florida residents. Additionally, this in-state tuition is much lower than what Florida residents might pay to attend an online public school based in another state like Ohio or Texas. Sticking with a public school in your state can save you tens of thousands of dollars over the course of your degree. You might also choose a nearby online college so you can easily visit the campus to meet with professors or advisers. Visiting the school can help you better connect with the school community and join on-campus student clubs or attend events. Some students enroll in a local online degree program because they are already familiar with its culture and traditions, or they have family or friends with ties to the institution. The school may also be more recognizable to local employers. Certain online degrees have in-person residency or orientation requirements where students have to visit campus a few times each term or throughout the course of the program. In this case, a local program makes sense.

Online Colleges by State Near Me

• Connecticut
• District of Columbia
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions About Online College

How much does an online bachelor's cost.

The cost of an online bachelor’s degree varies based on what school you choose, whether it’s a private school or a public school, and by your state of residence, among many other factors. An online bachelor’s degree cost can differ from that of an in-person bachelor’s when accounting for fees and how tuition is calculated. While on-campus programs may charge fees for housing, transportation, recreational activities and meals, online programs tend to lack these costs. That said, online programs may charge a distance education or technology fee . Online programs may charge tuition by the credit hour instead of by the semester, which may save online students some money. Most schools post information online about tuition and required fees for online programs, just as they do for campus-based bachelor’s programs. You can also request info from the bursar’s office, which is responsible for handling college tuition payments. There are also several ways students can reduce the cost of an online degree. For instance, they can transfer previously earned college credits or enroll in an accelerated program. If they’re in a competency-based program, students demonstrate mastery of specific skills to progress faster through what they already know, spending more time on the new information and paying a set price per billing period. Employer tuition reimbursement – where an employer pays for some or all tuition – and scholarships for online students can also help reduce the price of getting a degree. Prospective students can contact a financial aid adviser to ensure they are on track with paying each term. Generally, online programs accept payments online by credit card, debit card or electronic check; by mail via a check or money order; or by wire transfer. Most online degree programs also permit students to pay tuition for a given term in several sums rather than all at once.

How Long Does an Online Bachelor's Take?

An online bachelor’s degree can take the same amount of time as an in-person bachelor’s, which is four years, since the coursework is the same. Most bachelor’s degrees require around 120 credits, though the number varies by program and degree type. But an online degree can be completed in less time depending on whether you choose a full- or part-time program, for example. Full-time students can take more classes per term, but a part-time program may be easier to manage on top of other obligations. Bear in mind that most online undergraduates do not start their bachelor’s degree from scratch. Many have previously earned college credits that can be applied toward their new degree, which can save them time and money. Students generally need to submit transcripts from their previous college so that the new school can evaluate which credits will transfer. Academic term length is another important factor. While some programs have a traditional monthslong semester system for online courses, others have an accelerated time frame.

How to Talk to Prospective Employers About Your Online Degree?

You can talk about your online degree openly with a potential employer – it’s a good opportunity to showcase the rigor of the program you attended, your time-management and collaboration skills, and your work ethic. In the interview process, let them know how the skills you learned from the degree apply to the role you want. Several years ago, employers were more hesitant to accept online degrees as legitimate, with concerns that online students didn’t gain the same vital skills as they would in a traditional campus environment. But in recent years, that perception has changed dramatically, as even the top-tier schools have embraced online education and launched high-quality degree programs. And now, experts say it usually isn’t necessary to indicate on a resume that a degree was earned online, as the school’s reputation and accreditation will be significantly more important. While some employers may still be hesitant about online degrees, many have come to recognize the value of having their employees further their education while working, in part because students can apply what they learn directly to their careers. In fact, roughly one-third of online college students have access to tuition reimbursement benefits from their employer, according to the Wiley University Services survey.

What Are Some High Paying Online Degrees?

An online degree can help prepare you for a range of lucrative careers. On the list of U.S. News’ 25 Best Paying Jobs , petroleum engineers , who design equipment that extracts oil from reservoirs, are at No. 17 with an average salary of $142,800 in 2022, according to the BLS . This career path requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering, which is available online. In front of petroleum engineers on the list are information technology managers at No. 12, with an average salary of $173,670 in 2022. Online degrees in the IT field are prevalent at both the undergraduate and graduate level. Business and management degrees, also offered online, can help an employee climb the ladder at a company and earn a higher salary. In May 2022, the average wage for chief executives was $246,440, according to the BLS , and the average annual salary for general and operations managers was $122,860. Also on U.S. News' Best Paying Jobs list, marketing manager ranks No. 15, with an average salary of $158,280 in 2022; financial manager is at No. 14, with an average annual salary of $166,050; and sales manager ranks at No. 19, with an average salary of $150,530.

What Online Degrees Are In Demand?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the jobs projected to have the fastest growth from 2020 to 2030 that require a bachelor’s degree include agents and business managers of artists, performers, and athletes, at 46% growth; and film and video editors and camera operators, at 33% growth. Suitable degrees for these jobs include a bachelor's degree in a field related to business and management or film and broadcasting, respectively. In addition, some of the projected fastest-growing occupations for 2020 to 2030 were in health care and related industries. That’s good news for online students, as programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels are prevalent in this discipline. This increasing demand is due, in part, to an aging population and a rise in individuals living with chronic illnesses. Health care jobs in high demand include nurse practitioners and occupational therapy assistants. Online degrees exist that can prepare students for these roles. According to the statistics bureau, computer and mathematical occupations – for which an online degree in engineering or information technology may be relevant – account for some of the fastest-growing occupations. Demand for statisticians, for example, is expected to rise 35% between 2020 and 2030. Concerns over online security are also leading to a greater demand for employees with cybersecurity experience and knowledge. For positions such as information security analysts, employment is expected to grow by 33% through 2030.

Methodology

U.S. News has been publishing school rankings in the education sector since 1983 and has done so specifically for online degree programs since 2013. At both the undergraduate and graduate levels, U.S. News calculates rankings based on a variety of factors, which hold different weights depending on the ranking category. A program’s score for each factor, or ranking indicator, is calculated using data that online programs report to U.S. News in an annual survey. The rankings methodologies for online programs are separate from those for U.S. News’ Best Colleges and Best Graduate Schools rankings. Ranking methodologies are typically updated on an annual basis. In developing the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs rankings, U.S. News assessed online colleges based on four general categories. Engagement constitutes 35% of each school’s rank, referring to the extent to which a degree program enables students to effectively interact with instructors and classmates as they would in an on-campus environment. Services and technologies made up 25% of each school’s rank, focusing on how programs incorporate diverse technologies to allow students more flexibility to complete their coursework at a distance. This category also takes into account the quality of student support services, career guidance and financial aid resources. Accounting for 20% of each school’s rank was faculty credentials and training, measuring the degree to which online instructors’ credentials mirror those of on-campus faculty. This category also measures the effectiveness of the resources used to train instructors to teach distance learners. Finally, expert opinions from surveys of high-ranking academic officials make up another 20% of each school’s rank. These insights help account for factors affecting program quality that hard data can’t capture. U.S. News calculates rankings for online graduate programs using similar methodologies, with an additional category taken into consideration. Student excellence is also considered – a category that measures the extent to which students who enter an online program have proven aptitudes, ambitions and accomplishments that enable them to handle the rigors of online learning.

College Payments , Getting Into College , Paying for School , Tuition Free

8 Most Affordable Online College Degrees to Pursue in 2024 

Updated: June 6, 2024

Published: June 5, 2024

As the cost of traditional higher education soars, the search for accessible and affordable education solutions has become more urgent than ever. Online college degrees present a cost-effective alternative attracting increasing attention. These programs offer the potential for individuals to advance their careers and enhance their knowledge without the substantial financial burden often associated with on-campus education.

But why are affordable online degrees becoming so vital in today’s educational landscape? They meet the growing demand for flexible learning options and allow students from diverse backgrounds to access quality education, ensuring that more people can pursue their professional and personal development goals.

This article explores some of the most affordable online college degrees available in 2024, highlighting how they cater to the needs of prospective students looking to maximize their education investment.

Are Online Colleges as Good as Traditional Ones?

The evolving educational landscape has sparked a debate about the value of online colleges compared to traditional institutions. Are online colleges as strong and credible as their brick-and-mortar counterparts? The answer increasingly leans towards yes, thanks to significant technological advancements that enhance the online learning experience.

Online education offers unparalleled flexibility and accessibility, allowing students to learn from anywhere and manage their studies around other life commitments. Of course, it has its potential drawbacks, such as the lack of face-to-face interaction. and the need for solid self-discipline and time management skills.

Despite these challenges, the gap between online and traditional education quality is narrowing, with so many online programs providing dynamic, interactive learning environments supported by the latest technological tools. This ensures that students receive a comprehensive education that can rival on-campus offerings.

Are Affordable Online Colleges Accredited?

When considering affordable online colleges, the question of accreditation is probably the most important one to consider. Accreditation is a crucial marker of quality and credibility in education, ensuring that institutions meet specific academic standards. Why does this matter? Accredited online colleges are recognized for their academic integrity, essential for the transferability of credits and recognition by employers.

You should thoroughly research the accreditation status of any online college to avoid potential credit transfer issues and enhance your employability post-graduation. Reputable accrediting agencies play a critical role in this process, providing a seal of approval that assures students and employers alike of the educational quality.

Thus, making sure that an affordable online college is accredited is a big step in the decision-making process, showing the institution’s adherence to high academic standards and its commitment to providing valuable, quality educational offerings.

What Are the 8 Most Affordable Online Degree Programs in 2024?

As the demand for affordable online education continues to grow, certain programs stand out for their cost-effectiveness and the career opportunities they offer. Here’s a look at some of the most affordable online degree programs available in 2024:

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

Pursuing a BBA online offers a versatile education in business fundamentals at a fraction of the cost of traditional programs. Students should compare the affordability of online BBA programs to in-person options, considering the broad career opportunities available in business management and entrepreneurship.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

An online degree in Computer Science provides essential skills for the tech industry, including software development and systems analysis. The affordability and relevance of this degree make it a smart choice for those looking to enter the high-demand field of technology.

Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education

For aspiring educators, an online Bachelor of Education focuses on teaching methods and educational theory—with the added convenience and lower cost of online study. Prospective students should examine accreditation closely, ensuring the program meets licensure requirements in their state.

Associate of Science in Engineering Technology

This degree offers foundational engineering knowledge with the flexibility of online learning. Students must consider the program’s alignment with industry standards and the potential for credit transfer to four-year degrees.

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

An online Associate in Nursing can be a cost-effective route to entering the nursing profession. Students must thoroughly review accreditation and licensing requirements to ensure the program qualifies them for nursing licensure.

Associate Degree in Information Technology

Offering a gateway to the IT industry, this degree focuses on network administration, cybersecurity, and database management. Students should assess how well the online program prepares them for industry certifications and career advancement.

Bachelor of Science in Public Health

An online degree in Public Health prepares students for roles in healthcare policy, community health, and epidemiology, with the affordability of online education allowing for broader access to this field.

Associate of Science in Biology

This degree is ideal for students interested in science or pre-medical tracks, providing a flexible and affordable foundation that can lead to further study or various science-related careers. Potential students should investigate the transfer options to four-year programs to maximize their investment.

These programs are designed to provide accessible, high-quality education that prepares students for successful careers in their chosen fields without the financial burden often associated with higher education.

How to Find the Best Affordable College for Your Needs

Choosing the right affordable online college requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure the best fit for your educational and career goals. Here’s how you can find the best affordable college for your needs:

Determine Career Goals: Start by clearly defining your career objectives. What do you hope to achieve professionally, and which degree program will best help you get there? Align your academic pursuits with your long-term career plans.

Read Student Testimonials: Gather insights from current and former students about their experiences with the college. Look for feedback on the quality of education, the support services provided, and the overall student satisfaction. These testimonials can often be found on college websites, forums, or social media platforms.

Compare Accredited Programs: Ensuring that the college and its programs are properly accredited is crucial. Use resources provided by accrediting agencies to compare different programs’ accreditation status, which confirms that they meet national education standards.

By following these steps, you can decide which affordable online college offers the best opportunities to meet your educational needs while staying within your budget. This approach ensures that you save on costs and invest in a quality education that will support your career ambitions.

Tips for Making Online College More Affordable

Pursuing higher education online can already offer significant cost savings compared to traditional on-campus programs, but there are additional strategies to make online college even more affordable. Here are practical ways to reduce the financial burden of your education:

Scholarships and Grants: Many online colleges offer scholarships for online students. Research and apply for these opportunities to reduce tuition costs without the need to repay.

Tuition Assistance Programs: Check if your employer offers tuition reimbursement or assistance programs. Many organizations invest in their employees’ education, which can cover a portion or even all of your tuition fees.

Credit by Examination: Programs like CLEP (College Level Examination Program) allow you to earn college credit by passing exams in various subjects. This can significantly reduce the credits you need to earn through courses, lowering overall tuition costs.

Budgeting and Financial Planning: Develop a detailed budget for all your educational expenses, including books, software, and additional fees. Sticking to a budget can help you manage costs effectively and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Use Free Resources: Take advantage of free educational resources and materials often provided by online colleges or available through various online platforms. This can help reduce the cost of textbooks and other course materials.

By employing these strategies, students can maximize their financial resources and make pursuing an online degree more accessible and affordable.

What Is the Cheapest Online College Degree You Can Get?

Finding the cheapest online college degree requires a multi-faceted approach, considering both direct and indirect costs associated with obtaining an education. When searching for the most affordable degree options, you should begin by comparing tuition rates across various institutions. Community colleges and public universities frequently provide some of the most budget-friendly choices, particularly for in-state students, due to their lower tuition costs compared to private institutions.

Beyond just looking at tuition, it’s essential to assess the overall financial aid package available, including scholarships, grants, and federal student aid, which can significantly reduce the price of education. Also, the structure of the program plays a crucial role in affordability. For example, programs that offer accelerated paths or credit for previous experiences can reduce the time and money needed to complete a degree. Considering any potential residency requirements that could incur additional costs is beneficial. Programs that minimize or eliminate such requirements or that offer flat-rate tuition for all online students often end up being more cost-effective. Careful consideration of these factors will help identify the most economical online degree programs that do not compromise on quality or credibility.

Are You Ready to Enroll in an Affordable Online College this Year?

As you think about enrolling in an affordable online college, it’s important to consider how the insights and strategies discussed align with your educational needs and financial circumstances. Have you thought about which degree will best serve your career goals? Do the affordable online programs you are considering offer the flexibility, resources, and support needed to succeed? Ensuring the college’s accreditation, comparing the cost-effectiveness of different programs, and planning financially are important steps.

2024 presents a unique opportunity to take advantage of the growing availability of high-quality, affordable online education. You can invest wisely in your future by carefully researching and selecting a program that aligns with your career aspirations and budget. Enrolling in an affordable online college can be a transformative step towards achieving your personal and professional goals with the proper preparation and commitment. Are you ready to take that step and advance your education in a financially sustainable way?

What are the top affordable online degree options in 2024?

In 2024, some of the top affordable online degree options include Business Administration, Computer Science, Education, Engineering Technology, Nursing, Information Technology, Public Health, and Biology programs. These programs offer excellent value, combining lower costs with solid career prospects.

How do online college costs compare to traditional colleges?

Online colleges often provide a more affordable alternative to traditional colleges, mainly due to lower tuition rates and eliminating costs associated with on-campus accommodations and commuting. However, it’s important to consider additional fees and the cost of technological resources when comparing overall expenses.

What are the best affordable online college programs?

The best affordable online college programs offer a combination of low tuition costs, comprehensive academic resources, and robust support services. Accredited programs with a strong reputation for student success in the job market are particularly advantageous.

How do affordable online colleges maintain quality education standards?

Affordable online colleges maintain quality education standards by adhering to traditional colleges’ accreditation requirements. This ensures that they meet rigorous academic standards and provide a quality education that employers and other institutions respect.

What factors contribute to the affordability of online colleges?

Several factors contribute to the affordability of online colleges, including lower operational costs for the institution, the ability to enroll students from a wider geographical area, and the efficiency of delivering course materials digitally. Additionally, the flexibility of online programs allows students to continue working while studying, which can offset the cost of tuition.

Can I negotiate tuition rates with affordable online colleges?

While tuition rates at online colleges are generally not negotiable, many institutions offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid options that can effectively reduce the cost of attendance. It’s advisable to contact the college’s financial aid office to explore what financial support may be available.

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UR Nursing Announces Key Leadership Appointments to Drive Strategic Vision

  By Nora Williamson   Friday, June 7, 2024

The University of Rochester School of Nursing is excited to announce several key leadership appointments aimed at advancing its strategic goals and aligning with the dynamic landscape of higher education and health care. These appointments are part of the School's ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in nursing education, research, and practice.

“During our strategic planning process, it became clear that to continue our remarkable success and to stay ahead in a rapidly changing environment, we needed to enhance our leadership structure,” said Dean Lisa Kitko, PhD, RN, FAHA, FAAN. “These appointments will enable us to better serve our students, foster innovation, and strengthen our research capabilities.”

New Leadership Appointments

Carla DeLucia, EdD

Associate Dean for Enrollment Management & Student Affairs

Carla DeLucia, EdD, assistant professor of clinical nursing, will serve as the associate dean for enrollment management and student affairs and continue to oversee the admissions and student affairs offices. In her new role, DeLucia will spearhead initiatives to strengthen the School’s recruitment and admissions efforts, adapt to market demands, and support student needs. She brings 17 years of experience in higher education administration, including expertise in predictive analytics and student financial services to the leadership role.

Lisa Brophy, EdD, RN, MSBA, CNE

Associate Dean of Undergraduate Education

Lisa Brophy, EdD, RN, MSBA, CNE, assistant professor of clinical nursing, will serve as associate dean of undergraduate education. Brophy’s extensive experience in nursing practice, education, and leadership will be instrumental as she oversees the School’s undergraduate programs, including the accelerated nursing programs, RN to BS program, and the Center for Lifelong Learning. Brophy’s leadership will drive forward curricular innovations and enhance the quality of the School’s undergraduate offerings. She previously served as the assistant dean for education and co-director of the Accelerated Bachelor’s in Nursing program at the School.

Lydia Rotondo, DNP, RN, CNS, FNAP

Senior Associate Dean for Graduate Education & Innovation

Professor Lydia Rotondo, DNP, RN, CNS, FNAP,  will serve as senior associate dean for graduate education and innovation. Rotondo has been a transformative leader over the past 10 years as the School’s associate dean for education and student affairs, guiding the School through significant enrollment growth and championing competency-based education and technological integration. In her expanded role, Rotondo will focus on aligning the School’s priorities with the academic health system, promoting interprofessional education, and exploring innovative solutions to address workforce and community needs.

Sally Norton, PhD, RN, FNAP, FPCN, FAAN

Senior Associate Dean for Research

Professor Sally Norton, PhD, RN, FNAP, FPCN, FAAN, will serve as the senior associate dean for research. Over the past five years, Norton has significantly advanced the School’s research mission, supporting faculty and students, and enhancing the School’s areas of research excellence. Norton will now oversee the PhD in Nursing & Health Science program, working closely with Program Director Marie Flannery, PhD, RN, to continue fostering research growth and mentorship within the School.

The University of Rochester School of Nursing remains committed to nurturing a culture of wellness, curiosity, and community while embracing technological advancements and fostering inclusive and equitable educational opportunities.

“These leadership changes are pivotal to our journey towards our 2030 Strategic Plan," said Dean Kitko. "With our new structure, we are poised to achieve sustainable growth and continue our legacy of excellence in nursing education and research." See more information about the School of Nursing’s senior leadership team .

Media Contact

Contact the Communications Office with media inquiries related to the University of Rochester School of Nursing.

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