Many schools offer distance learning PhD programs in a variety of subjects and formats. Meeting all program prerequisites, gaining admission, and completing all work are all required to earn these degrees. Students interested in doctoral studies should look into the qualifications of each school, as they are not always equal or truly beneficial to a career.
“Distance learning” usually refers to programs that are offered entirely online or partially online with a residency requirement. Another possibility is that a PhD program is started on one campus and then taught or telecast to another. Students in this last model can attend all classes in person rather than online.
Each program has its own set of benefits. Students who pursue a fully online distance learning PhD may be able to work on their own time. PhD candidates can get to know their professors during residency programs, which may have schedules designed for working professionals. It’s crucial to account for the costs of travel to residency sites. On-campus distance learning PhDs are a great option for students who prefer traditional classroom settings, and they allow students to pursue a PhD in areas where they aren’t typically available.
The majority of distance learning PhD programs have a list of entry requirements. Acceptable majors, required grade point averages, and educational levels are usually specified by colleges before acceptance. Some programs only accept Master’s students, while others, for example, accept students with a B.A. Letters of recommendation, a strong written statement of purpose, and completion of the general and subject Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or language proficiency tests are usually required by each school.
Schools should also spell out exactly what is required to finish a program and earn a distance learning PhD. Students can expect to take two to three years of core and elective courses and may need to pass examinations before beginning work on a dissertation, though this varies. Support for the dissertation is handled differently depending on the school, but students should expect to spend time emailing or meeting with an advisor who can help them formulate topics. The dissertation is read by several faculty members, and the student must usually defend it before the degree is awarded.
As convenient as a distance learning PhD program may be, students should thoroughly research the qualifications of universities that offer distance learning doctorates. Some schools are not accredited, and work completed in the program is not professionally recognized. Students should also check to see if the program they are enrolled in is recognized by any professional organizations from which they may seek a license. Because these programs are costly and time-consuming, students are best served by being informed and selective about which ones they pursue in order to benefit their future careers.