Pennsylvania is home to some of the top-ranked research universities in the nation. As a result, students seeking a doctoral degree have many options. The admission requirements for a doctoral program vary depending on the school, but some standard requirements form part of any doctoral program.
Some of Pennsylvania’s top schools offer online degrees through their graduate programs. These programs give students more options when pursuing their degree by allowing them to learn at their convenience from home or wherever they choose.
The number of online doctoral programs available varies from school to school, but most schools offer two online programs. With online degrees in various fields, students may find the right fit for their career goals and interests.
The colleges and universities below have been ranked based on their reputation for quality education, affordability, and graduate success rates.
University of Pittsburgh
The University of Pittsburgh offers the most online doctoral degrees in Pennsylvania, including Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), a Ph.D. in nursing, and an EdD in learning design and technology.
The program offers live, synchronous classes each week and includes on-campus research residencies and clinical practicals.
Saint Joseph’s University
Saint Joseph’s University’s online doctorate programs are practitioner-based and flexible with asynchronous courses. SJU offers three online doctoral degrees: Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.).
La Roche College
La Roche College in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program for RNs with a master’s degree in nursing.
The DNP program prepares students for the future of nursing by developing leadership skills and innovative roles in the field. In addition, the program aims to promote evidence-based practice, research, and clinical expertise for nurses. To graduate from the program, students must complete 37 credits at the doctoral level.
Penn State World Campus
Students enrolled at Penn State World Campus can choose from four online doctorates: an EdD in adult education, an EdD in kinesiology, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and a Ph.D. in rehabilitation science. Pitt’s online Ph.D. programs focus on business, education, and nursing.
You can complete all Pitt’s online Ph.D. programs without ever visiting campus: Students communicate with professors and classmates through a course management system as well as via email and phone.
Cabrini University
Cabrini’s online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program provides a strong foundation for leadership and administration in K-12 schools, higher education, and other educational settings. You can complete the 60-credit Ed.D program in five semesters.
Coursework includes leadership theory and practice topics, finance for educational leaders, and ethics in educational leadership. The degree culminates with the successful completion of a dissertation.
Duquesne University
Duquesne University’s online Doctor of Education in Executive Leadership program prepares students to become leaders and innovators in education organizations. The curriculum explores practical and theoretical aspects of educational administration. Students must complete 60 credits over six semesters to graduate from the program.
Alvernia University
Alvernia’s online Doctorate of Education in Strategic Leadership program suits educators seeking administrative positions within school districts, colleges, or universities.
The curriculum focuses on decision-making skills and research methods to advance students’ careers as administrators, department heads, superintendents, principals, or professors.
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
The Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers various online degree options, including an online Doctorate in Education in Educational Systems Technology. The program is flexible and highly customizable, with students pursuing the doctorate choosing Instructional Design and Development, Research and Evaluation, and Leadership and Change.
All courses are entirely online, and students must complete dissertation credits.
In the 21st century, more education institutions are offering online degree programs to meet the needs of their students. Pennsylvania is no exception, and its online programs are increasing rapidly.
The increase in online programs is due to many factors, including affordability and accessibility for working students and an increase in demand for flexible degree programs among non-traditional students.
The best online doctoral degree options in Pennsylvania are a cost-effective alternative to traditional on-campus as they do not require students to relocate or pay for on-campus housing.
And with the rapid advancement of technology, most schools have adopted a curriculum that seamlessly integrates interactive video lectures and assignments delivered digitally.
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