Are you looking to earn a doctoral degree, but need a program that fits into your busy life? Many schools offer flexible part-time programs.
In this article, we'll take a look specifically at part-time Ph.D. programs, how they work, and some schools that offer them.
What Is a Part-Time Ph.D. Program?
In terms of content, part-time Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programs are the same as full-time programs. You still have the same amount of coursework and research to complete.
The difference is that part-time Ph.D. programs can be finished more slowly than full-time programs. They are more flexible.
Ph.D. programs require a great time commitment. Full-time Ph.D. students typically study 35 to 40 hours a week for four to seven years.
Part-time students move at a slower pace but must put in the same amount of work as full-time students to graduate.
Generally speaking, part-time Ph.D. students study 15 to 20 hours a week and may take anywhere from five to 10 years to graduate, if not longer.
How Does a Part-Time Ph.D. Program Work?
No two part-time Ph.D. programs are exactly alike. Since their defining feature is flexibility, each student may progress at a different pace.
Some Ph.D. programs are available online, while others may combine online and in-person components. Others may be completed mostly on campus.
Students enrolled in part-time Ph.D. programs will focus on completing coursework for about three to four years. Once coursework is complete, their focus will shift to research and preparing the dissertation.
This second portion of any Ph.D. program is what typically takes the longest to complete, even for traditional full-time students.
If you are studying part-time, the rate at which you progress through both the classroom and research portions of the program will determine how quickly you graduate.
What Types of Ph.D. Programs Have Part-Time Options?
You can pursue Ph.D. degrees in a wide variety of fields. Some of the options include:
- Economics
- Nursing practice
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Engineering
Most types of Ph.D. degrees are available to part-time students. You will simply have to decide which type of Ph.D. to pursue, and then find out which school offers a part-time program in your chosen field.
The good news is that the majority of schools accept both full-time and part-time students into their Ph.D. programs. But not all schools will have the specific type of degree you're looking for.
It may take some time and research to find a school that checks all the boxes. Your specific program may be offered in a flexible online or in-person format.
Chances are, the right program for you is out there somewhere; you just have to find it.
What Are Some Schools Offering Part-Time Ph.D. Programs?
As noted above, many colleges and universities offer part-time Ph.D. programs in many different fields. Let's look at just a few of the top options for part-time students needing maximum flexibility.
1. Capella University
Capella University is an online school offering degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. It is one of the best options for busy students looking to get their education their way.
Some of the Ph.D. programs include:
- Education
- Behavior Analysis
- Business Management
Students can pursue their degree using the FlexPath study option, which allows them to set their own pace and complete coursework in a time frame that works for them.
2. George Mason University
George Mason University is located in Fairfax, VA. It is the largest public school in the state.
This school offers the following three Ph.D. programs:
- Biodefense
- Political Science
- Public Policy
All three of these doctoral programs can be completed on a part-time basis. Coursework is completed on campus.
3. Wayne State University
Wayne State University is a public school in Michigan. This large school offers around 350 degree programs, many of which are doctoral degrees.
Some of the Ph.D. programs include:
- Anthropology
- Cancer Biology
- Computer Engineering
Many of the Ph.D. programs have a part-time option. The part-time Ph.D. in social work, for example, is designed with added flexibility while still enabling students to graduate within five to seven years.
4. Liberty University
Liberty University is a university in Virginia that offers several part-time PhD programs online.
Some of the online PhD programs at Liberty University include:
- History
- Public Policy
- Psychology
- Education
- Criminal Justice
- Bible Exposition
Many of these online PhDs are flexible to work with your schedule. Some even have no login times so you can study at whatever time is best for you.
5. Keiser University
Keiser University is an accredited institution by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Some of the PhD programs available at Keiser University include:
- Educational Leadership
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology
- Instructional Design and Technology
Keiser University offers scheduling flexibility for all of their courses and programs. Regardless of your schedule and responsibilities, you can earn a PhD on your timetable.
Part-Time Ph.D. Programs: Degrees to Fit Your Life
Whether you prefer to study at a slower pace or need time to focus on other commitments in life, part-time Ph.D. programs can help you reach your educational and career goals.
