When you are looking for online doctorate degrees, it is important to do your research. Because earning a degree (particularly a doctorate) is such a huge investment in time and money, you must do the proper investigative research before deciding.
In order to find the best online doctorate degrees, it is best to narrow down your selection by using the following criteria:
1. Online Degree Focus
This is an obvious factor to consider when deciding which online doctorate degrees to consider. You are going to want to choose a program that offers a degree in a major area of your interest. This will help ensure that you remain motivated throughout the long process of acquiring a doctorate.
2. Accreditation
Accreditation is a factor that is often discussed. The requirement of the level of accreditation ultimately depends on what you are earning the online doctorate for. Also, how you will be paying for the degree. A lot of businesses will offer tuition assistance for their employees. However, most of these businesses will require that the degree be from an accredited institution. The level of accreditation in this case will ultimately depend on your employers requirements.
3. Admission Requirements
Now that you have found a program that you can see yourself in. You must determine whether or not you meet the admission requirements. The standards for admission will vary by programs. If for some reason you do not meet the minimum admission requirements, do not give up. A lot of times admissions will make special accommodations to degree seeking students that have an excellent track records or high motivation.
4. Residency Requirements
Online doctorate degrees often include some kind of residency requirements. If you are seeking an online degree, you must be aware of these requirements and be sure that you are willing to put in time and effort. Otherwise, you will not be able to obtain your degree from institutions that require them.
5. Program Length
How many courses and credits do your degree require. Be sure that you are going to be able to financially afford them. Be sure that you are willing to put in the long hours that it will take to earn the degree.
6. Ability To Transfer Credits
Depending on the institution, some credits may be available for transfer. If you have already earned credits from another institution, you may look into this factor when considering your program of choice.
7. Cost
This is going to be one of the most significant factors for most degree seeking students. The cost of a degree has increased a lot throughout the years. You want to be sure that achieving the online doctorate is financially feasible and that it makes financial sense.
Schools Offering Online PhD, Doctorate, & Doctoral Degree Programs
Paying for Online Education