Some of the top universities in the USA offer PhD programs for professionals in various fields, such as the Doctor of Education (EdD) program at Johns Hopkins University, the Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program at the University of Southern California, and the PhD in Engineering Education program at Purdue University… Continue reading to learn more.
Getting a PhD as a working professional is a beneficial step forward that requires a lot of time and dedication. Choosing the PhD program for professionals that is right for you is an important step in advancing one’s career and expertise in a specific field. Well, this is the challenge, because choosing the right PhD programs for professionals goes far beyond the institution and the program itself; you should be reflecting on what you want to get from the experience and the benefits an online PhD program offers.
Technological advancement has potentially led to an explosion in the number of institutions offering online PhD programs for working professionals. These online PhD programs, such as the 1-year PhD programs, have helped professionals actualize their dream of getting a PhD without pausing their careers. Despite their pros and cons, online PhD programs have provided professionals with flexibility and work-life balance, and have significantly contributed to their career advancement.
To assist you in choosing the best PhD program for your career as a working professional, we have compiled a list of the top 10 programs for professionals. Whether you intend to switch careers, enhance your skills and expertise, move into academia or switch to industries from academia, there is an online PhD program that fits your specific needs and goals. Working professionals can accommodate these programs’ busy schedules while still receiving a high-quality education.
Comparison of Key Metrics
When comparing the top 10 PhD programs for professionals, it is important to consider key metrics such as acceptance rate, graduation rate, retention rates, tuition costs, average time to degree completion, faculty-to-student ratio, and research opportunities. These factors can greatly impact the overall quality of the program and the potential for success in the academic and professional fields.
The graduation rates indicate the percentage of students who complete their program, reflecting the institution’s ability to support its students. Acceptance rates can provide information about the program’s competitiveness. Retention rates indicate how much support students receive throughout their studies. Tuition costs vary widely between institutions and programs, so it’s important to consider the financial investment required.
RELATED: Top 5 Benefits of Completing a 1-Year PhD Online
Application Requirements
When applying for a PhD program, it is important to carefully review and understand the application requirements for the particular program. All these professional doctorate degrees have a few things in common, such as a statement of purpose and letters of recommendation. Working professionals may also need to meet additional PhD program application requirements, including but not limited to:
- Academic transcripts
- Standardized test results, like the GRE Score,
- Writing sample
- Research proposal
- Professional experience.
Tips for a successful application include starting the process early, seeking feedback on your application materials, and highlighting your relevant experience and achievements. Your chances of admission to your desired program can significantly increase with strong application materials.
Top 10 PhD Programs for Professionals in Various Fields
When it comes to pursuing a PhD as a professional, it’s important to consider the top programs available in various fields to ensure the best fit for your academic and career goals. Some of the top PhD programs in various fields include the following:
- Johns Hopkins University: Doctor of Education (EdD)
- University of Southern California: Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
- Purdue University: PhD in Engineering Education
- University of Florida: PhD in Educational Technology
- Arizona State University: Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH)
- Texas A&M University: PhD in Plant Breeding
- Liberty University: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
- University of Wisconsin-Madison: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- University of Southern California: Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership (EdD)
- Colorado State University: PhD in Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change
Let us now go into detail about why these universities made it onto our list of the top 10 PhD programs for professionals in various fields.
ICYMI: Top 10 Executive Doctorate Degree Programs of 2024
#1. Johns Hopkins University: Doctor of Education (EdD)
Program Details:
- Frequency: Part-time
- Format: Online
- Duration: 4 years
- Credits: 54
The Doctor of Education (EdD) program at the Graduate School of Education at Hopkins is renowned for its innovative and forward-thinking approach. The program caters to working professionals seeking to enhance their leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, and research capabilities at the university level. Whether you aim to advance your career or enrich it with practical knowledge, this program is the perfect starting point.
With renowned faculties and specialties in technology education, counseling, and brain studies, the Johns Hopkins University Doctor of Education program is a top choice for working professionals who seek a PhD in Education. You can do it part-time and completely online, eliminating the need to juggle work and studies.
See: Top 16 Online Doctoral Programs in Education in Texas
#2. University of Southern California: Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
Program Details:
- Frequency: Part-time
- Format: 100% online.
- Duration: –
- Credits: 42
The Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program at the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work provides an advanced degree in social change and innovation for leaders and entrepreneurs in agencies and communities. Contrary to other social work schools that provide advanced practice doctorates in clinical practice or pedagogy, the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work trains experienced professionals to create practical, applied solutions for significant social issues that directly affect vulnerable, marginalized, or otherwise disadvantaged populations.
The goal of this program is to provide professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to solve difficult societal problems and make a difference. With asynchronous education, students have more flexibility in their study schedules. The curriculum emphasizes practical learning through case studies, simulations, and practical experience.
#3. Purdue University: PhD in Engineering Education
Program Details:
- Frequency: Part-time
- Format: Online
- Duration: 4 Years
- Credits: 24 core credits + other elective credits
Purdue University, the first American institution to offer a doctoral degree in engineering education, is at the forefront of shaping the future of engineering education. The program aims to produce knowledgeable and introspective engineering graduates, as well as to broaden the discussion to include the general public. Furthermore, Purdue’s program offers students research and hands-on opportunities to ensure they are well-equipped for careers in both academia and industry.
Doctoral graduates in engineering education have the potential to positively impact various aspects of education and engineering, such as understanding student learning, motivating pre-college students to pursue engineering, supporting college students in their engineering studies, improving faculty and departmental effectiveness, influencing institutional change, contributing to policymaking, and engaging with the public.
#4. University of Florida: PhD in Educational Technology
Program Details:
- Frequency: Part-time
- Format: Online
- Duration: A minimum of three years.
- Credits: 54
For the last five years, the University of Florida’s College of Education has consistently ranked among the top three online graduate programs in education in the United States. The principles of adult learning and online education. Experienced faculty with extensive backgrounds in instructional design and online teaching oversee the program, which aims to cover educational technology research across various settings.
This research-focused program stands out due to its outstanding faculty, personalized mentoring, and its commitment to bridging the gap between theory, research, and practical application. The Educational Technology doctoral program equips candidates with the expertise and resources to excel as educators, researchers, and creators of valuable educational tools and technological innovators in their communities and workplaces.
#5. Arizona State University: Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH)-Clinical
Program Details:
- Frequency: Part-time
- Format: Online
- Duration: 3 Years
- Credits: 60
Arizona State University offers an online Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH)-Clinical program with a focus on personalised education to assist graduates in transforming mental health and medical care. The clinical concentration of a doctorate in behavioral health can equip clinicians with the necessary training and knowledge to pursue advanced careers in today’s integrated primary care settings.
ASU Online tailors this 60-credit doctoral program specifically for graduates seeking leadership roles in integrated care. The curriculum includes both live and self-paced learning opportunities, enabling students to collaborate with classmates and instructors in real time while having access to live webinars and internship opportunities.
#6. Texas A&M University: PhD in Plant Breeding
Program Details:
- Frequency: Part-time
- Format: Online
- Duration: 3 Years
- Credits: 64
The online program offers advanced training in plant breeding, incorporating the latest scientific and technological advances available in the field. Students receive in-depth instruction in the basic sciences, making them competitive in the cereal and grain sciences job market. The program is highly flexible, allowing working professionals to continue working while furthering their education.
The Doctor of Philosophy degree in Plant Breeding prepares students for leadership roles in areas such as food, feed, fibre, and bioenergy plant improvement. The Department of Soil and Crop Sciences’ Graduate Program equips students for careers in research, teaching, extension, industry, and agronomic enterprise management.
#7. Liberty University: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Program Details:
- Frequency: Part-time
- Format: Online
- Duration: 8-week courses
- Credits: –
- Tuition Fee: Resident: $1,472.97 per credit; Nonresident: $2,355.96 per credit
Professionals looking to advance their knowledge in the field can benefit from Liberty University’s online Doctor of Business Administration program. The program focuses on critical topics such as human resource management, strategic research methods, and employee coaching.
Students will have the opportunity to learn from industry leaders with extensive experience and advanced degrees in business. In addition to preparing students for high-level management roles, the program also provides mentorship from respected business professionals.
RELATED: Top 2-Year Online PhD Programs in Business Management
#8. University of Wisconsin-Madison: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Program Details:
- Frequency: Part-time
- Format: Online
- Duration: 2-4 years
- Credits: 68 (with bachelor’s degree), 32 (with master’s degree)
- Tuition fee: $650 per credit
The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program accepts individuals with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Master of Science (MS) degree. Making it one of the top PhD Programs that do not require a master’s degree. This program aims to enhance advanced practice nursing skills, as well as provide training in leadership, policy development, and scholarship based on practice. The program equips nurses for advanced practice and career progression by providing comprehensive training.
Adult learners can enroll in the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s program in five clinical tracks in a hybrid format, or in a fully online option if they specialize in Population Health or Systems Leadership and Innovation.
SEE: 6 Best 1-Year DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) Program Online
#9. University of Southern California – Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership (EdD)
Program Details:
- Format: Online
- Duration: 43-Unit Track: Less than 3 years, 60-Unit Track: Less than 4 years
- Credits: 43 and 60 Respectively
- Tuition Fee: $2,354 per unit (estimated)
The Doctor of Education in Organizational Change and Leadership (OCL) online program prepares students to facilitate conditions that promote successful, versatile, and competitive organizations, such as colleges, private companies, non-profits, and government organizations. In this program, students will explore workplace learning, examine effective strategies for fostering organizational learning, and learn to create systems that foster effective organizations.
There are two program paths available: a 43-unit track for students with a master’s degree, and a 60-unit track for students without a master’s degree but with substantial work and leadership experience. This is another program that allows for a direct Bachelor-to-PhD transition, allowing professionals to do a PhD without a Master’s degree.
#10. Colorado State University – PhD in Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change
Program Details:
- Format: Online/In person
- Duration: 4 years
- Credits: 60
- Tuition Fee: $1,100/Credit
Colorado State University provides a highly-regarded PhD program in Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change, which is an excellent option for professionals seeking advanced education in this field. The program focuses on cultivating expertise in areas such as leadership, organizational development, and change management. It aims to develop both research and practical skills, enabling students to gain a deeper understanding of workplaces and implement long-lasting solutions.
The program has a rigorous selection process and seeks a diverse group of students. Applicants are expected to have substantial work experience, a strong commitment to applying research to identify problems and find solutions, and the motivation to apply these solutions for the benefit of individuals and organizations.
Conclusion
Earning a PhD requires dedication to studying and researching, as well as significant time and resources. If you are a professional seeking to advance your knowledge and skills through a PhD program with a focus on research and industry, this list of the top 10 PhD programs for professionals can serve as a helpful starting point. It’s also important to conduct thorough research on other programs, especially if you have a specific area of study in mind. While lesser-known programs may still be of high quality, it’s important to consider studying with professors who align with your interests. Best of luck on your pursuit of a PhD!
Editor’s Pick
- Why Do A PhD? – Reasons For A Doctorate Degree
- 10 Best Online PhD Programs In Nursing for Working Professionals
- Top 10 PhD Programs in Chemistry
- Best 10 Online PhD Programs in Public Health for Working Professionals
- How to Choose the Best PhD Program for Maximum Earnings
Discover more from Doctorate Guru
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
