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The Top 10 Easiest PhDs: Tuition, Duration, and Financial Aid

If you’re wondering what the easiest doctorate degree is, this really depends on your definition of easy.

You may find a lengthy research dissertation challenging, or you may love writing and struggle with mathematical or analytical assignments. Equally, depending on your lifestyle, a flexible program that allows you to study online at your own pace could be much more manageable. Or it may be better to go all-in on an accelerated program that you can finish in a short space of time.

With all these factors and more in mind, you can learn about the easiest PhDs available today across various fields.

Table of Contents

The Easiest PhD Majors

Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, and we all excel in different areas. Having said that, a significant proportion of people find math and science challenging, so many people will find the following majors the easiest PhDs to get:

Religion/Theology

However, the easiest PhD for you could be quite different. If you have a head for numbers but don’t do so well with languages, you mind find a PhD in mathematics or engineering much easier.

Your interests also come into play: it’s always easier to apply yourself to a topic that you’re passionate about.

The Easiest PhD Programs

We’ve ranked the following programs based on various criteria to find the easiest doctoral degrees across a range of disciplines while mostly staying away from courses heavy in maths and science, as areas that people typically find challenging.

We looked for programs that offer a high level of flexibility, making it easy to fit your studies around other parts of your life. We also prioritized shorter programs that allow you to earn your doctorate in record time and progress with your career and avoided those with lengthy dissertation requirements.

Walden University, The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Human Sciences

PhD in Education – Higher Education Leadership and Policy (Self-Designed)

Walden University was named first in the USA for PhD Education graduates. This is one of the easiest PhD programs to get into, as the University has an acceptance rate of 100%. It is also one of the shortest PhD programs in the field, offering a fast-track option that allows you to transfer up to 50% of your total credits and finish the program sooner.

Courses include: Leading the future of education, education law, policy & governance, and higher education in the 21st century.
Credits: 86 quarter credits
Duration: 3-8 years
Delivery: Online
Tuition : $692 per quarter hour
Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, and loans
Acceptance rate: 100%
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Capella University

PhD in Psychology – General Psychology

Capella University offers a wide range of online programs for students looking for ongoing education with a high degree of flexibility, including being able to study at their own pace. This PhD in Psychology is also one of the easiest online PhD programs, as it gives you the option to complete the doctorate in as little as five quarters.

Courses include: Ethics & multicultural issues in psychology, advanced inferential statistics, and quantitative research methods in psychology.
Credits: 87
Duration: 5-9 quarters
Tuition : $545
Financial aid: Scholarships, employer discounts, and military benefits

The University of Florida, Department of Classics

PhD in Classical Studies

The US News & World Report named the University of Florida one of the top 5 public research universities in the USA for 2023. With a focus on the humanities, many people will find this PhD program relatively easy, focusing on subjects like languages, culture, and history.

Courses include: Greek prose composition, the roman tradition, and Latin prose composition.
Credits: 60
Duration: 3 years
Delivery: On-campus
Tuition : $12,744
Financial aid: Fellowships, scholarships, and teaching assistantships
Acceptance rate: 31%
Location: Gainesville, Florida

Faulkner University

Doctor of Philosophy in Humanities

Faulkner University was founded on Christian principles and offers many flexible programs designed to help students balance their education with their other commitments. This is one of the easiest PhD programs because you can complete it in just 48 credit hours while gaining a global intellectual and spiritual perspective through courses covering thought, ideas, and literature in the Western tradition.

Courses include: Scholarly inquiry & writing in the humanities, historical investigations, and literary analysis.
Credits: 48
Duration: 3 years+
Tuition : $650 per semester hour
Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, federal work-study, and loans
Acceptance rate: 76%
Location: Montgomery, Alabama

Regent University

PhD in Renewal Theology

Regent University is a popular private institution that offers programs in over 150 areas of study, including some easy PhD programs that can be completed with very flexible study arrangements. This theology doctorate program aims to create future church leaders with a global outlook based on a Renewal approach to history and contemporary issues.

Courses include: Advanced hermeneutics, renewal theology, and advanced cosmogony & anthropology.
Duration: 4 years+
Delivery: Online (with 2-week on-campus residency each fall)
Tuition : $670 per credit
Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans
Acceptance rate: 50%
Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia

Boston University, College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College

Online Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (PP-OTD)

Boston University is a private institution ranked #1 in occupational therapy by the US News & World Report. This PP-OTD is one of the easiest doctorate degrees in physical therapy because you can complete it in just 18 months. It aims to equip practicing therapists for higher leadership roles capable of innovatively addressing the field’s key challenges.

Courses include: Social policy & disability, health promotion & wellness, and evaluating clinical theory & research.
Credits: 33-37
Duration: 18 months
Tuition: Varies
Financial aid: Scholarships, employer reimbursement, and federal loans
Acceptance rate: 20%
Location: Boston, Massachusetts

The University of Tennessee Knoxville, College of Social Work

Doctor of Social Work (DSW) in Clinical Practice & Leadership

The College of Social Work is a higher education institution that strives to provide exemplary education in social work. It’s also heavily involved in international projects, which allows students to develop a global perspective on the sector. You could consider this DSW to be an easy doctorate degree, as an accelerated program designed to train existing clinical social workers in advanced clinical practice and leadership.

Courses include: Neuroscience for clinical practice, psychopathology & psychopharmacology, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, federal work-study, graduate assistantships, veteran services, and loans.
Acceptance rate: 78%
Location: Knoxville, Tennessee

New York University, School of Law

Juris Doctor (JD)

New York University is one of the largest private universities in the country, with campuses and academic centers across the globe. In this JD program, students enjoy a strong blend of theory of law and practice through the school’s more than forty legal clinics.

Courses include: Constitutional law, survey of criminal procedure, and international law.
Credits: 83
Duration: 5 years
Tuition : $73,216
Financial aid: Scholarships, fellowships, veteran benefits, and loans.
Acceptance rate: 21%
Location: New York City, New York

North Carolina State University, College of Design

Doctor of Design (DDes)

NC State University is among the top 1% of universities worldwide, according to the Center for World University Rankings. This program encourages practicing professionals to develop innovative concepts and promote them more generally in the design community and society. It is an easy doctorate degree in design in that you can complete it in three years or even less.

Courses include: Research methods in design, case study analysis in design, and design for health & wellbeing.
Credits: 57
Delivery: Online (with one week of on-campus study every semester)
Tuition : $505.28
Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, student employment, and loans.
Acceptance rate: 46%
Location: Raleigh, North Carolina

Frontier Nursing University

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Frontier Nursing University is a not-for-profit institution with several accolades for nursing education, ranking third for online master’s family nurse practitioner programs. The program is designed for working professionals and emphasizes evidence-based practice, with a quality improvement project in collaboration with your chosen clinical site. With this easy doctorate program, you can earn the highest nursing qualification in mere 15-18 months.

Courses include: Epidemiology & biostatistics, ethics & health policy, and leadership & organizational dynamics.
Credits: 30
Duration: 15-18 months
Delivery: Online (with 3-day on-campus orientation)
Tuition: $19,380
Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, employer benefits, veteran benefits, and loans
Acceptance rate: 66%
Location: Versailles, Kentucky

What’s the Difference Between a Professional Degree and a Doctorate?

A PhD program largely focuses on theoretical learning and the analytical aspects of the discipline you’re studying. It typically involves extensive research presented in a lengthy thesis or dissertation, often proposing a new theory or innovative findings.

On the other hand, a professional doctorate or master’s degree emphasizes gaining knowledge for practical applications and does not typically involve a dissertation. While a PhD can make you an erudite scholar well-equipped to work in research or academia, a professional degree typically leads to a career path as a professional in the industry, government, or nonprofit sector.

FAQs about the Easiest PhDs

Which phd is the easiest to get.

The PhD you’ll find easiest will depend on your own strengths and weaknesses and your passions. Generally, most people will find doctorates in the arts and humanities the easiest. Flexible programs that can be completed online and accelerated ones with a shorter overall time commitment are the easiest to complete in terms of meeting other life commitments.

Which Subject Is Easy for a PhD?

Subjects like the humanities, education, theology, and psychology are generally considered the easiest, mostly because they involve less quantitative research and rely on qualitative study methods.

Final Thoughts

The easiest PhD for you will depend on your own talents, weaknesses, and which practical aspects of the program will make it easiest for you to earn your doctorate. Many people find the arts and humanities easier than science and math, though your passion for any subject can make studying it relatively easy. Having the flexibility to study online , at your own pace, or alternatively, in a shorter, more intensive period like a 1-year PhD program can also make it easier to finish your PhD.

Although easiness is one factor to consider when choosing the right PhD for you, it certainly isn’t everything. Most importantly, you should opt for the program that matches your interests and is most likely to help you achieve your career and life goals.

Want to explore more options? Check out our list of the highest paying PhDs to learn about the programs that will give you the best return on your investment.

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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How Hard is a PhD?

Amongst the general population, having a PhD is often seen as the pinnacle of academic achievements but how hard is it to achieve?

Having passed my PhD viva yesterday I now feel I’m in a position to really judge how difficult a PhD is!

Congratulations to Jeff @savvy_scientist who passed his PhD viva today, remotely! Now we're having a celebration – remotely! #StayHome pic.twitter.com/4rI0ZiCF5z — ImperialBiomechanics (@ICBiomechanics) March 25, 2020

A dive into the unknown

Any time we don’t have experience in something, the element of the unknown can make it hard to evaluate how hard it is.

Coming from your previous qualifications you may extrapolate and think that since your undergraduate degree was a step up from high school in work and difficulty, a PhD must be another step change in difficulty.

With PhDs it’s not helped by the fact that a lot of the time only the most academically capable students are interested in them, which may make you think you have to be really clever to do one. Plus, as they’re not that common it’s not always easy to find people with experience to speak to.

Growing up I didn’t know anyone who had done a PhD degree, heck none of my immediate family had been to university, so I appreciate that gaining an insight about PhDs isn’t available to everyone.

So how hard is a PhD?

The reality is that a PhD can be difficult, but mostly it’s just different .

How hard you might find certain aspects of a PhD really depend on your own working style and to a lesser extent personality. Let’s discuss the factors one by one.

How hard is it to manage the PhD workload?

During a PhD there will be times you have to stay late, or work weekends (every so often) but it’s nothing like undergraduate degrees, with relentless deadlines and all-nighters being a regular occurrence for a lot of us.

Something that studying for a PhD does have in common with undergrad is that there is always more work that you can get on with, which can be disconcerting. Though unlike undergrad this feeling doesn’t stop after exams where you can enjoy a long study-free summer, because there are no term times for a PhD. I’ve previously shared how much holiday I’ve taken as a PhD student .

You need to find a way to switch off, otherwise your mental health will suffer.

Prior to starting my PhD I worked as a research assistant for three years and I found it helpful to view my PhD as a full time job. Even all the way through to submitting my thesis, working consistently 9-5ish every day was enough. I do hear of people working every hour of the week but these are the exception rather than the norm.

For a deeper insight into my typical working schedule check out the post below where I shared my calendar.

How Much Work is a PhD?

PhD depth and breadth of study

If you’ve been in higher education for a while, you’ll have probably got used to learning a wide amount of topics in a short time. Topics are covered at a fast pace, sometimes in not much detail, without much time to build your understanding.

I can’t have been the only person who during undergrad was effectively have to fight fires, not having much time to concentrate and fully understand each topic before having to move on to the next one.

PhDs provide a step-change, where you focus in on a single topic to a much greater depth.

As you go further along your educational career you tend to focus on topics with greater depth. This doesn't necessarily make a PhD more hard though.

For most PhDs there will be a certain amount of knowledge you’re expected to have picked up from your previous degree(s), but the pace of a PhD is undoubtedly much more slow. The reality is that the breadth of a PhD topic is really quite limited, though it can often span several disciplines. It’s common for your project to involve topics you’re not completely comfortable with.

You have a lot of time to focus on just one topic and you’re expected and required to know the topic inside out. The good news is that you’re given more than adequate time to learn the ropes.

As a PhD student there is nothing wrong with refreshing your knowledge of basic topics, especially if it’s something you haven’t studied in years. I still look things up on YouTube and Wikipedia and there is no shame in doing so: you’re in this position to learn and produce scientific outputs, so it’s much better that you’re comfortable with the topic.

I would suggest that for most people a PhD is generally more relaxed than an undergraduate degree. That’s not to say there isn’t work involved, but the pace gives you breathing room to understand the topic comprehensively.

If there’s one key message I’d like to get across, it’s please don’t ever be scared to ask your supervisor questions. You’re not on your own.

That’s assuming your supervisor is interested in supervising, which sadly isn’t always the case. Lack of supervisor support is one of the main difficulties I’ve seen students face (in other research groups I should add!). I wrote some tips here for choosing projects and supervisors .

How to Choose a PhD Project & Supervisor

Essentially as long as you are willing to learn, I wouldn’t worry too much about this aspect of a PhD.

Is a PhD intellectually difficult?

You’ve probably heard the metaphor about standing on the shoulders of giants, and it’s true that as a PhD student you’re building on previous work carried out in the field.

However there usually isn’t an expectation to make massive intellectual strides forwards. In reality you’ll probably be giving a small nudge forwards to a small area of the field. For some people this can be a relief and make the idea of doing original research much more obtainable, whereas for others it may belittle the entire idea of doing research!

The reality of the situation is that PhD students may be seen as a cost effective source of labour to advance science. Although we’re often working on projects with complicated lofty descriptions such as “ nanoparticles impregnated with silver ions for cancer treatment ” or “ biphasic lubrication mechanics of soft engineering materials ” in reality the practical side of them does not require genius level intellect.

Oftentimes you’ll be doing pretty menial things behind these grand topic titles. These tasks require you to know what you’re doing, but rarely will you have devised the whole thing yourself.

Fun fact: at my first job after undergrad, working at one of the most prestigious universities in the world, my boss would sometimes bring in her gardener to pick up any slack, doing the same work as me and some of the post-docs.

A full house for @trayanovalab at the @ImperialBioeng annual lecture. Amazing work & images! #ComputationalCardiology pic.twitter.com/R2dxE7csbg — Jeff Clark (@savvy_scientist) June 18, 2018

Of course you need to be able to understand the concepts behind what you’re doing, but I wouldn’t worry too much if you’re worried that you have to be a genius to complete a PhD.

So is a PhD easy?

In terms of workload and difficulty a PhD isn’t necessarily as difficult as you might think, so don’t be scared off. That’s not to say it’s not without challenges which we’ll now go on to discuss.

How a PhD can be hard

Of course there are differences between projects, supervisors and universities but I’d say generally the main things which can make a PhD hard are:

Self motivation

Looking after yourself, dealing with isolation.

Your ability to problem solve
Fear of public speaking

Prior to studying for a PhD, your studies will likely have been structured by a timetable of contact hours, coursework deadlines and exams. Working towards a PhD is the first time you’re likely to experience fully independent working for extended periods of time. It will also involve work where no one, not even your supervisors, know all the answers. This can be daunting and I think this is where difficulties may stem from for many students.

A PhD is a long-term commitment so you need dedication to reach the end of a PhD.

By the end of your PhD you’ll have to demonstrate that you’ve contributed to your field with a thesis and/or peer-reviewed publications. This can be a challenge and without the regular undergraduate format of deadlines and exams, you may quickly lose focus. Regaining that focus and dedication is key to seeing your PhD through.

If this is something you struggle with check out my post on maintaining motivation during your PhD .

At Imperial we have two progress points throughout the PhD: one at 9-12 months (Early Stage Assessment) and another at 18-24 months (Late Stage Review). These formal progression checkpoints help by giving deadlines and a structure to work towards.

Solution: I believe one of the best ways to keep up productivity, and ensure you’re on the right track, is to meet regularly with the supervisor. I suggest meeting at least a few times per month. I do know some people who meet much less regularly and this can work for some people. However, I personally find myself chatting with my supervisor about far more than the types of things I’d want to ask in an email and this is where the mentorship aspect of a PhD can be made or broken.

In summary, working closely with your supervisor can make your PhD a lot less difficult.

It’s very easy to develop bad habits during your PhD such as:

Eating badly and drinking too much coffee
Getting stressed and working long hours
Not getting exercise and sleeping poorly

From not cycling at all I've now cycled 1k+ miles in London, mostly commuting to @imperialcollege . Great way to get around with so many benefits. Started because of a free course by @RBKC & @Bikeworksuk w/ a refurbished bike! Few words about my experience: https://t.co/rGwSqomikD pic.twitter.com/joyVftxuVn — Jeff Clark (@savvy_scientist) August 30, 2019

Solution: Remember that working longer hours won’t necessarily help your productivity. Instead take time out of your day for breaks and go for walks. Dedicate time to look after yourself. If you’re looking for ways to stay efficient, think of doing things like commuting by walking or cycling. I’d also highly recommend cooking your own meals to stay healthy (and save money ).

When I say isolation I really mean a few different things:

Owning your own project

Every PhD project is different, you may collaborate with friends or colleagues for bits of your work but you are the only person driving forwards your project.

This means that you may face problems other people in the research group or department haven’t encountered. Not only could this be isolating but it may also set your project back if you don’t mitigate the risks.

Solution: Firstly, don’t be afraid to ask people for help. Maybe someone from your group doesn’t have the answer to your problems but they may offer useful advice or know someone else in the department who may help. Coffee breaks offer an opportunity to informally chat with colleagues, which can both be fruitful for your work and your mental health: here is a nice Science article about the positives of coffee breaks.

Imposter Syndrome

As every project is unique it can be very difficult to tell how you measure up to other people. At times you may struggle to understand what other people in your group are working on, but this doesn’t mean you’re not cut out for it! Supervisors have a good idea of what’s required for a project when you’re applying: if you’re accepted you’ll more than likely be fine in this regard.

Solution: Don’t compare yourself to others. This is fruitless, especially when every project is different anyway. Make sure you understand your own project well and you’ll be fine. Having a chat with other students can be a good way to reassure you that everyone goes through difficult times.

Staying social

If I asked you to close your eyes and picture a PhD student, what would you see? Personally I used to conjure up an image of a fatigued student wearing goggles and trapped in a lab, rarely seeing daylight.

That’s not always a hundred miles away from the truth, but it doesn’t have to be the case. We’ve already covered how working such long hours can be counterproductive, but also putting yourself in a solitary position like this can be both demoralising and awful for your mental wellbeing. Please don’t!

Solution: Take frequent breaks, get involved with activities your lab-mates or department are organising: or organise something yourself. Find something you enjoy and can look forward to going along to, you can still join clubs and societies as a postgrad. Being isolated can make a PhD so much more mentally difficult: it doesn’t need to be!

Solving problems

You hear people saying that to be a good researcher you have to be inquisitive and questioning everything. These are certainly good traits to have which can make the work more meaningful, but at the level of a PhD student I believe it’s much more important to work smart.

To me this includes the ability to:

Think on your feet
Don’t be afraid to ask your supervisor questions
Be forward thinking and catch problems early

Solution: Set up a framework to overcome problems and always think of ways to mitigate risks by having a Plan B. For example I work with people who’ve waited six months for consumables to arrive: if you don’t consider risks like this you immediately set yourself up for a less productive and more stressful experience. As before, I really do recommend meeting with your supervisor frequently.

Public speaking

I’m not sure whether presenting your work is a requirement for every PhD but it’s certainly an expectation for most. If nothing else you’ll likely have to present in your viva.

A fear of public speaking is very common and as such it’s a common PhD difficulty to tackle.

It’s completely natural to be nervous with the idea of presenting, however that’s not a reason to avoid public speaking completely. On the contrary you’ll only get comfortable with it by practicing. We’re fortunate as researchers to get regular opportunities to try public speaking.

I certainly still get nervous myself but would rather face the fear than shy away from it: plus you feel great afterwards.

Solution: Take opportunities to give presentations, whether it be at lab meetings, departmental events or conferences. The great thing with being a PhD student is that you get to practice with no expectations that you’ll be perfect. It’s much better to face it now than push the problem back later in to your career. I’ve written some tips for how to keep your presentation interesting.

Presentation Skills for Students: How to Stay On Topic and Keep Audience Attention

Some example issues you might have to overcome as a PhD student

Common phd challenges.

Now that we’ve covered the categories of common PhD difficulties here are some common day to day challenges:

You need to use a technique or piece of old lab equipment and there’s no one to teach you how to use it
You’re scared to ask for help because you think you should already know the answer
You’re not getting the results from an experiment you’re expecting to see
You need to write a code to do something and have never coded before
You’re struggling to understand a concept
You’re bored of reading or are losing interest in the topic
You feel lonely
You’re stuck waiting for something to arrive
You need to create nice looking diagrams
You need to build a rig or piece of equipment from scratch
You’re worried about giving a presentation
Your supervisor isn’t providing support
You’ve no idea what statistical analysis to use
You’re facing funding limitations, meaning you can’t do all the experiments you ideally would
You’re struggling to motivate yourself to write a 100+ page thesis!

I’ve written a separate post covering a range of challenges I faced during my own PhD and you can find that post here: Overcoming Academic Challenges and Failure During a PhD .

Overcoming PhD challenges

It’s normal to face problems during a PhD. It’s how you tackle these problems that will be the defining factor in how difficult you find the PhD.

Part of the joy in completing a PhD is knowing that you’ve managed to overcome these difficulties.

In all these scenarios having a chat with other people will help. Even if other students or staff can’t directly provide assistance, most people are very friendly and supportive which will boost your morale.

I can’t overstate how useful scheduling regular meetings with your supervisor is. It’s so much better to face problems early rather than awkwardly have to deal with it six months later. I meet with my primary supervisor every week and we work together to set short-term deadlines for my work which tie in with the larger targets.

For problems outside of your supervisor’s remit lots of universities provide additional support. For example the graduate school at Imperial lays on courses for PhD students covering how to code, using reference managers, statistics etc.

Plus there are usually facilities for dealing with things such as stress and anxiety via counselling, student support and chaplaincies. Don’t make the PhD more difficult than it needs to be, these facilities are put in place to help you.

Has my PhD been hard?

I’ve been surprised by how manageable the PhD has been. I wouldn’t say that any of the research work was particularly difficult, it has simply required dedication.

Good time management and taking my mental health seriously have helped a lot, as has considering it a full time job. Slow and steady wins the race. Simple steps like always having a backup plan to mitigate the chance of getting stuck if things go wrong has served me well.

I’ve never been a fan of presenting but have learned to expose myself to it in an effort for self improvement. Of the five conference presentations I gave during my PhD, I won prizes for two.

Remember that you may lack self confidence but how you come across to other people may not be how you perceive yourself: this can be very uplifting. If I can do it so can you!

Thesis-writing

I’m currently in the process of writing up a separate post dedicated to my experience of writing a thesis. In summary, for me personally, it wasn’t anything like as stressful as I was thinking it would be.

I gave myself approximately six weeks to write most of it. Mine was 190 pages in total which may sound daunting but I actually only had about 120 pages of proper content and it’s all with 1.5 line spacing. Each chapter was only about 20 pages which sounds much more manageable and really isn’t much for 3 years work!

Things which helped me included:

Having already written up some results.
Using figures I’d made for presentations.
Not expecting it to be perfect.
Setting myself tight deadlines. I gave myself two weeks to write the introduction, literature review and discussion chapters.

Some of us PhD students make things more difficult than they need to be, trying to make everything perfect. I’ve heard some staff say “good enough is good enough” which I’ve found a useful mantra.

I recommend not spending too long on the thesis because:

Papers are what count, put your energy into them instead.
There is no point trying to second-guess what your examiners may want to see, you could spend months deliberating and they’ll still potentially have corrections to suggest.

I was a bit nervous before my viva, which is normal. I was confident in the work I had done for the PhD, but was actually more concerned about being asked any theoretical or technical questions you’d be more likely to encounter in an undergraduate course.

Although it lasted more than five hours, mine was a supportive environment, mostly a discussion to give feedback to improve the thesis and publications. Remember to be honest and be reassured that you know your work better than anyone else.

In summary, how hard is a PhD?

Most PhDs are not intellectually difficult but they do present other challenges
How hard you may find a PhD depends on your ability to self motivate, look after yourself, deal with isolation, problem solve and master public speaking
Everyone experiences challenges during their PhD but it’s how you confront those challenges that matters
Make the most of your supervisor for support and guidance

If you’d like personalised help with your PhD application I am now starting to offer a small number of one-to-one sessions. Please contact me to find out more or click here to book a call.

If you’re interested in doing a PhD but are scared of the difficulty, please don’t be put off.

As long as you’re willing to learn and are dedicated I am sure you can succeed.

Finally, remember to enjoy the experience!

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10 Comments on “How Hard is a PhD?”

I have really been struggling on whether to apply for a PhD. This post has given me the realistic picture I needed. Thank you

Yay, I’m so pleased you found it useful, Ankita! If you can think of any other questions you’d like answered be sure to let me know. Best wishes

Thanks for sharing your experiences and insights, Jeff 🙂 I find this post really helpful in terms of being aware of what’s to come as I start my PhD journey – and more importantly, what I can do to overcome these potential obstacles!

Hey Julie, I’m pleased you’ve found it useful. Best of luck with your PhD!

Jeff, Thank you very much for putting this together. Im a second year PhD student who regularly finds themselves in crisis of confidence. This article really helps to give me a little perspective, empowering me to plough on regardless of nagging doubts!

Thanks very much for your comment, Callum. I’m really glad the article has helped. Best of luck with the rest of your project: you’ve got this!!

I am currently a full time MBA student who will graduate in December. My professor in Leadership actually approached me about whether I would consider becoming a higher ed professor and researcher. She noticed qualities in my writing and research that she said the job would suit me perfectly. I have been back and forth on the idea and your site has truly been a great boost for me in getting the confidence I need to apply for my PhD, so thank you :)!

Hey Sarah. Yay! I’m so glad the website has been useful for you, thanks so much for your comment. Do let me know if you have any other questions or suggestions for other content which would help. Best of luck with the end of your MBA and future PhD application! Best wishes, Jeff.

Jeff, Thank you for taking the time to put this together. I am entering my final term of my MS in Cybersecurity and graduate in May 21 and I was curious on the level of effort for a PhD. When my wife saw me looking at PhD programs however she lovingly made me close the browser so it may not be in the cards right now. Granted I do have 2 young children under 5, a full time job and am an Army Reservist so she isn’t wrong 🙂 However, I do really appreciate you putting this together to help other students interested in PhD programs. This has given me great insight into what to expect and what it will take. Thanks again! George

Hi George, Thanks so much for your kind comment, I’m glad it has been useful for you. In terms of how much effort a PhD is: anecdotally I did mine keeping pretty strictly to normal office hours of roughly 9-5 Monday-Friday and had the official letter confirming my PhD within 3.5 years of the day I started. Admittedly this is in the UK, I expect in the US it would take a little longer overall but the weekly workload doesn’t need to be overwhelming. I think my peers on average worked similar hours. The nice thing about research is that, assuming you have a reasonable supervisor, you are typically much more in control of your hours than in a traditional job. As long as you get the work done a good PhD supervisor doesn’t tend to care how you schedule your time so could fit quite nicely around other commitments such as childcare. Sometimes people think the flexible hours can only go badly for them: being expected to work longer hours than normal, but I don’t think this needs to be the case. Of course chucking endless hours at a task isn’t always useful, better to work smart! Sure some projects may involve intense sets of experiments but these are either usually few and far between or limited to fields like biology with cell experiments. In my experience anything based on a computer tends to be more flexible so you’re good. Basically the level of effort doesn’t need to be any more intense than a normal job. I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions or I’d be happy to jump on a quick call if that’d help. Best of luck! Jeff.

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10 Easiest Ph.D. Degrees

Doug Wintemute

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Updated September 20, 2023

Margaret Weinhold

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A doctorate can lead to careers in academia and research and development. Professionals with these degrees can take on leadership roles in nearly every industry.

But a Ph.D. is not for everyone. They can be extremely challenging, intensive, and time-consuming.

Not all Ph.D. programs are the same, however. On this page, we explore some of the easiest Ph.D. programs. We look at what makes these disciplines easier than others, and what opportunities they have to offer students.

Best Ph.D. Programs

Ph.d. vs. professional doctorate.

A Ph.D. and a professional doctorate are both terminal degrees, but they have some key differences. A Ph.D. features substantial research requirements, whereas a professional doctorate incorporates advanced practical training.

When it comes to easy doctoral degrees, Ph.D. programs typically run longer and require more intensive study. The theoretical focus of a Ph.D. can also prove more challenging than a practical doctorate.

What Makes a Ph.D. Easy?

A Ph.D. can be difficult for many reasons. These programs typically take 5-7 years to complete and feature a large amount of research. You may have to develop an original dissertation and then defend it at the end of the program.

The process can be intense and isolating. And there are disciplines that tackle challenging material, such as STEM, medicine, and law fields. These programs tend to feature more technically difficult studies, though that really depends on your abilities as a student.

For many, an easier program features more accessible material, shorter completion times, or less intensive research requirements.

Here, we highlight some of the easiest Ph.D. programs, including the easiest Ph.D. disciplines, the easiest online Ph.D. programs, and the easiest Ph.D. without dissertations.

1. Ph.D. in Humanities

A Ph.D. in humanities gives you a very broad area of study to explore. The discipline covers much of the human world, including investigations of cultures and societies throughout the globe and time. Many of these programs also encourage interdisciplinary studies, which makes the field even more open-ended.

This flexibility helps make humanities one of the easiest Ph.D. programs. You may even have the ability to take a comprehensive exam and complete a smaller research project instead of completing a dissertation, which could make things easier.

2. Ph.D. in Education

A Ph.D. in education examines topics like educational leadership, policy, and curriculum and instruction. While most of these programs require a dissertation, they can be completed relatively quickly compared to many other Ph.D. programs.

Unlike humanities above, an education Ph.D. tends to be more limited in scope. This can make it less daunting for some. Education can be a practical discipline as well, which allows you to put theory into action.

Featured Doctorate Degrees in Education

3. ph.d. in theology.

A Ph.D. in theology prepares you for careers in religious leadership, teaching, and analysis. You use critical thinking skills to advance scholarship in the field. You may also engage with other disciplines, which provides educational freedom.

Many Ph.D. programs in theology feature vocational components. This, along with the subjective nature of the discipline, can make it easier for you to pass your program, but it may also be harder to excel.

Featured Doctorate Degrees in Theology

4. ph.d. in business administration.

In a Ph.D. in business administration , you can follow many different paths. You may specialize in disciplines like accounting, management, or finance. You may investigate theories, evaluate current systems, or look for gaps in existing business studies.

While not as practical as a doctorate in business administration (DBA), a Ph.D. in business can still prove more applicable and testable than many other disciplines. For some students, this makes the field more approachable.

Featured Doctorate Degrees in Business Administration

5. ph.d. in psychology.

In a psychology Ph.D. program, you study the human mind and behavior. The psychology discipline offers many specialization opportunities, including health, organizational, and developmental psychology. Graduates from these programs can take on teacher roles or enter the psychology profession directly.

While Ph.D. programs in this field can be research-heavy, certain pathways offer more practical learning opportunities, such as the clinical psychology branch. You can also get the opportunity to run experiments, which can break up tedious research.

Featured Doctorate Degrees in Psychology

6. ph.d. in literature.

A Ph.D. in English or literature allows you to advance your knowledge of a specific branch of literary scholarship. These programs often encourage you to take interdisciplinary approaches to develop new and engaging ideas. You work with theory, critical analysis, and history to approach topics from new angles and add to the discourse.

Most Ph.D. programs in literature require a dissertation, but the flexibility of topics can be freeing. Similar to many humanities fields, you may find literature an easier discipline to pass but difficult to master.

7. Ph.D. in Criminal Justice

A Ph.D. in criminal justice takes on all sectors of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, policy, and human services. You'll investigate leading theories, contemporary issues, and criminal behavior. Since this field has such a practical foundation, you can apply your learning to real-world situations and solutions.

The discipline offers many specialization opportunities, such as justice administration, public policy, and emergency management. Several schools offer a Ph.D. in criminal justice that you can complete in less than four years.

Featured Doctorate Degrees in Criminal Justice

8. ph.d. in public policy.

In a Ph.D. in public policy program, you study the development, implementation, and consequences of public policies. You research policy histories and systems and evaluate their effectiveness.

While these programs can prove rigorous, the real-world applications of the discipline may help you latch on to the studies more easily. After graduation from this program, you can take on leadership positions in governments and organizations.

9. Ph.D. in History

History offers you an array of study opportunities, including social, cultural, or intellectual history. You might look at a specific time or place. You may aim to work in academia, public institutions, or other investigative fields.

History Ph.D. programs often require intensive research. You must find a new way of looking at a historical topic, possibly through interdisciplinary approaches or an unexplored subfield.

10. Ph.D. in Sociology

A Ph.D. in sociology explores the relationships between humans and society. You research policies, inequalities, family, and education. You conduct sociological studies to better understand social dynamics and demographics. You may also use your findings to analyze and provide solutions to ineffective policies and structures.

While some sociology programs feature complex theoretical investigations, project-based programs take a practical approach. If you're more hands-on, you'll appreciate the focus on testing, experimentation, and measuring.

Featured Doctorate Degrees in Sociology

Cost of doctoral degrees.

When choosing a Ph.D. program, many people first look at program cost and length. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual cost of tuition and fees at graduate school was $19,749 in 2020-21. Public schools cost less than private colleges and universities, with average annual tuition prices at $12,394 and $28,445, respectively.

Rather than comparing cost, however, you might consider affordability. Factor in what kind of financial aid options you qualify for, such as federal financial aid , grants, and scholarships . Many schools offer tuition discounts and creative payment options as well.

Online vs. On-Campus Ph.D.

Online Ph.D. programs typically feature scheduled synchronous classes, anytime asynchronous classes, or a combination of both. Synchronous sessions usually offer evening or weekend options.

Along with schedule flexibility, online Ph.D. programs require little or no on-campus requirements and travel. This makes even the most distant programs accessible, giving you more options to choose from.

While convenient, online Ph.D. programs may not suit everyone. Online learning may have a less interactive environment and require more independence than on-campus programs. Finally, not all Ph.D. disciplines translate to online studies, particularly those with heavy practical requirements.

Even the easiest online Ph.D. program can prove challenging. Before settling on one, make sure your learning style and requirements align with the delivery method and resources provided.

3 Considerations When Choosing a Ph.D. Degree

Every student wants and needs different things from their Ph.D. program. Regardless of how easy a Ph.D. program looks, they all require a significant commitment. To make sure you make the best decision, consider other factors, like:

Faculty: Your school's faculty could play a major role in what and how you learn. Try picking a school and program that has experts in your field.
Research Environment: You also want to examine the research environment, including the libraries, centers, and labs. Ask what type of support Ph.D. students receive and what tools and resources they have at their disposal.
Past Graduate Performance: Look at the school and program's previous graduates. Pull statistics on their performance in the program and careers afterward. High retention, graduation, and employment numbers can be effective quality assurance measures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easiest Ph.D. Degree Programs

Can you get a ph.d. without a dissertation.

Yes. While most doctorates without dissertations belong to professional programs, you can earn a Ph.D. without completing a traditional dissertation at some schools. Some programs have a practical project, and others have a research project without the depth of a dissertation.

Are there any 1-year Ph.D. programs?

No. You can earn certain professional doctorates in about one year, but you cannot complete a Ph.D. program in that time. While Ph.D. programs typically take 5-7 years to complete, some of the easiest Ph.D. programs allow you to graduate in less than four years.

What are the best Ph.D. programs for working professionals?

An asynchronous online program may be the easiest Ph.D. to get for working professionals. This delivery method allows you to complete your studies during the hours that suit you best. An asynchronous schedule can even accommodate a nontraditional work schedule.

What is the most difficult Ph.D. program?

The most difficult Ph.D. program depends on how you learn best, but certain disciplines tend to be more difficult. Highly technical programs, such as mathematics and science disciplines, challenge many students. Very involved and intensive programs like engineering may also prove to be difficult.

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How hard is it to get a PhD? Definitely not easy!

Getting a PhD is a long-term commitment that requires a high degree of self-responsibility, commitment, and perseverance, which makes it a difficult task. PhD students have to deal with vaguely defined tasks, limited guidance, and multitasking frequently. Moreover, they are prone to mental health challenges and setbacks and criticism. Despite these challenges, a PhD can be worth it . Learn more!

Why getting a PhD is not an easy task

A phd is a long-term commitment, a phd involves vaguely defined tasks, phd students receive limited guidance, phd students have to multitask frequently, a phd involves regular setbacks and criticism, phd students are prone to mental health challenges, even though getting a phd is hard, it can be worth it.

The decision to pursue a PhD is a life-altering one. Those who consider embarking on this journey have to take a lot of factors into account. If you are one of them, you should for instance reflect on why you want to do a PhD , whether to do it full-time or part-time , or how to finance it.

Additionally, there is often an underlying concern about the difficulty of getting a PhD. You may ask yourself: “Am I ‘good’ enough to master this task?” or “How difficult is it really ?”

Getting a PhD is undoubtedly hard because it requires a high degree of self-responsibility, commitment and perseverance over the course of several years.

This does not mean that a PhD is not right for you. Rather, it is important to fully understand the practical implications of the high degree of self-responsibility, commitment and perseverance. Based on this understanding, you can make an informed decision.

Key reasons why getting a PhD is hard

Pursuing a PhD is not a decision to be taken lightly, as it is not something you can complete quickly.

Therefore, you should be extremely critical of people stating that you can write a PhD thesis in 3-6 months . It’s near impossible.

In Europe, for instance, a master’s degree is a common prerequisite to start a PhD trajectory. Data on the length of PhD studies in Europe show that after a master’s degree, obtaining a PhD takes on average 3.5 – 4.5 years.

And this is just the average. It’s not uncommon for a PhD to take 5 years or longer!

Thus, if you struggle to commit to longer and more complex projects, a PhD may be challenging for you to complete.

The high degree of self-responsibility inherent in PhD studies often means that clear or predefined tasks are lacking.

This lack of clear guidance typically starts at the PhD proposal stage, where students are often required to devise their research topic or approach on their own.

And PhD students cannot simply do what they want to, but must instead identify a gap in existing literature, advance science, and are often required to make a societal contribution through their research.

Easy-peasy? Not at all.

Academic work frequently lacks a clear endpoint and can become all-consuming.

In fact, the absence of clearly-defined tasks and expectations tends to lead to insecurities and the widespread feeling of PhD students of not knowing when something is good enough or when to stop.

The regularity of supervision meetings and supervisors’ involvement in a PhD student’s research can vary widely. However, overall, a PhD consists mostly of independent work.

PhD supervisors are there to guide PhD students. Yet, ultimately, PhD students are largely responsible for their projects and progress.

There are strategies to get the most out of supervision meetings . Nonetheless, a PhD journey is often described as ‘the art of muddling through’. This means that despite a lack of expertise, PhD students must persevere and figure things out.

Pursuing a PhD involves much more than just conducting research. The academic job market is competitive, and the expectations of what PhD students ought to achieve during their PhD studies are high.

This idea that PhD students spend all their time in the library or in a laboratory, uninterrupted and buried in books or immersed in experiments, is far from accurate.

On the one hand, PhD students are expected to develop all-round academic profiles which include research, teaching, conference presentations, funding acquisition and demonstration of leadership.

On the other hand, many PhD students struggle financially as they do not receive sufficient funding. They have to work extra jobs, and often worry about the future.

Depending on the university system and context, additional extensive course work can be part of a PhD trajectory. PhD students who can easily feel overwhelmed and struggle with the constant need to multitask.

Not only is the academic system competitive, but it can also be harsh. Criticism is often provided very directly.

Therefore, many PhD students struggle with feelings of failure when things don’t work out as planned, such as failed experiments or rejected journal articles or conference applications.

In addition, PhD students often take this criticism personally because they invest so much time and effort into their work, only to have it critiqued by supervisors, peer reviewers or others.

However, criticism and rejection are common in academia and can be viewed as opportunities for improvement.

It takes time and effort to gain the confidence to handle negative feedback, which can otherwise be demoralizing for PhD students.

Considering the challenges faced by PhD students, it becomes clear that they need to develop a strong emotional resilience to navigate through the academic system.

Many PhD students struggle with imposter syndrome, doubting their own abilities. And unfortunately, mental health issues are very prevalent among PhD students.

The academic system can both create and exacerbate existing mental health struggles, which in turn makes it even harder for many PhD students to obtain their degree.

It is important to distinguish between being aware of the challenges of obtaining a PhD and rejecting the challenge altogether. Even though there are several key reasons that make obtaining a PhD a challenging endeavor, it can still be the right choice for you.

Yes, stress levels during a PhD can often be experienced as higher than those during a full-time job . However, this obviously varies depending on the individual’s personality and job circumstances.

Furthermore, many people also have positive experiences doing their PhD, and view their studies as a valuable and enjoyable time for personal and professional growth.

Therefore, do not let fear hold you back from pursuing a PhD.

And you can actively take steps to avoid common pitfalls during a PhD journey. This can include selecting a supportive academic environment, finding a sense of community, choosing a position with reasonable expectations and funding, and seeking mental health support early on.

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What Is the Easiest Doctorate Degree? [2024 Guide]

What is the easiest doctorate degree?

Sometimes, finding the easiest doctoral degrees comes down to better understanding what each program consists of and the time that will be involved in pursuing them.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Accelerated PhD programs are also a possibility. Finding the learning option that best fits your schedule can be a strategic way to conveniently earn your doctorate degree.

Another option is finding a university that is more lenient in their required master’s degree GPA needed for a PhD program admission.

What Is the Easiest Doctorate Degree?

Completing a doctorate from any university requires dedication and perseverance. Here are a few program and admissions factors, though, that could make a doctoral degree a little less difficult to obtain:

Less math required
Less science required
No GRE or GMAT requirement
No dissertation requirement
No residency requirement
Online learning options available
Accelerated courses available (generally lasting 8 weeks each)
Aligned with your interests and strengths

The easiest PhD to get can also depend on your own interests, skills, and strengths. For example, someone with strengths in English and communication might not consider it easy to obtain a doctorate in chemistry.

Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

Business Administration

Criminal justice, healthcare administration, human services, public administration, public health, public policy.

Methodology: The following degree programs are offered online by accredited universities. Specific admission requirements vary by university, but a growing number of schools do not require GRE or GMAT scores or dissertations. The degree programs listed below are in alphabetical order.

doctorate degree in Business Administration

This is a research-based business program for professionals who wish to take their managerial skills to an advanced level. You can combine corporate experience and relevant research to make impactful administrative decisions.

Business administration courses are usually defined around an overall business development project that looks at business design, methods, tools, and professional ethics. If you are looking to advance your career in business, you might want to consider earning a doctorate in business administration.

Some business professionals with administration expertise pursue senior administrative roles in their professional industry or become involved in making impactful business decisions to help transform companies.

If you are working in the healthcare or social work industry, a doctorate in counseling might appeal to you.

An advantage of this particular type of program is that you can pursue a specification that aligns best with your interests and career goals. For instance, you might study human behavior, social psychology, counseling supervision, or even specific avenues of therapy.

Getting a doctorate degree in counseling can open the door to more advanced career opportunities in the healthcare and social services industries. Some counseling professionals open a private practice while others may work in a hospital, university, or community center.

Following a doctorate in counseling, you can pursue licensure and certification in the field.

If working in the domain of law and order fascinates you, you might consider earning a doctorate in criminal justice.

A criminal justice program can help you develop the necessary skills to conduct your own research and analyze data in a way that influences the justice system. A doctoral program can also give you the chance to explore theoretical elements of the justice field.

Depending on your academic background and your area of specialty within criminal justice, this doctorate can lead to a variety of career paths. Some graduates work within emergency management agencies, forensic departments, information security sectors, and even academia.

If you wish to have a leadership role in the education industry, you might consider pursuing a doctorate of education. This program enables you to enhance your educational research skills and adapt to administrative roles in a variety of sectors.

Professionals in this field may hold senior administrative roles in universities, professional departments, or elementary and secondary institutions. Principals and superintendents are both examples of educational administration roles.

In an education doctoral program, you’ll likely take advanced research courses. Research skills can help you analyze the current educational system and implement changes within academic institutions.

doctorate degree in Healthcare Administration

A doctorate in healthcare administration can help prepare you for leadership roles in the business aspect of the medical industry.

This versatile degree involves courses that focus on policies, ethics, group management, hospital administration, finances for healthcare, and advanced patient care.

A healthcare administration doctoral program can enable you to combine holistic knowledge and advanced business strategies. This skill set is directly applicable to helping healthcare institutions run effectively and efficiently.

Professionals in this field may work as health information managers, hospital administrators, clinical or nursing home managers, and other leadership roles within healthcare institutions.

A doctorate in human services can help prepare you for leadership positions within organizations that help those in need. This type of program often has a focus on underserved populations.

Through the coursework, you can gain an advanced understanding of policies, legislation, rights, ethics, and protocols for serving within human services organizations. You can often choose a concentration based on your interests and what population you most wish to serve.

There’s a growing need for people in the industry of social services. Professionals in this field tend to work as social service managers, community service managers, or training and development managers.

Learning practical skills that can be applied to numerous industry settings is at the forefront of a doctorate in management.

You may gain credibility in the eyes of employers through this doctorate program. You’ll likely learn advanced skills in training, research, theory, and practice for leadership in business, education, or government institutions.

In your studies, you’ll typically focus on financial management, system management, conflict management, or human resources management. You can structure your course load according to your interests and career goals.

This doctorate program is quite broad, so it can be applicable to leadership and management roles in nearly any industry, depending on your chosen concentration.

doctorate degree in Public Administration

A doctorate in public administration can be tailored to suit your interests and career goals. This type of program can help you develop your managerial and strategic planning skills for administrative roles in a variety of industries.

You can also pick a specific concentration that best aligns with your industry of choice. Public administration coursework tends to look at ethics of management, public policy, strategic planning, performance management, employee evaluation, and the economics of administration.

Common public administration careers include human resources manager, budget analyst, and health services manager.

A doctorate in public health can equip you with advanced training and research skills for the healthcare industry. Some leadership and management roles in the public health industry require innovative thinking and communication mastery.

Your coursework will likely consist of lots of hands-on and practice-based work. You can also choose a specialization that focuses on health education, epidemiology, biostatistics, and more. Some professionals with a doctorate in public health work as medical services managers, professors, medical researchers, or epidemiologists.

A doctorate in public policy focuses on public policy theory, ethics, research, and practice on a community and global scale. You can learn about the development and purpose behind public service programs, and you can learn to analyze and propose policies to improve them.

Coursework often focuses on ethics, legislation, communication development, management principles, and case study evaluation with extensive research. Common public policy careers include political science professor, political scientist, community services manager, and emergency management director.

A doctorate in psychology can develop your research skills in a way that is applicable to professional practice.

The coursework is designed to prepare you for direct professional practice. Some career paths in this field include addictions counselor, applied researcher, professional consultant, and clinical psychologist.

Some of your courses may look at behavioral assessments, child psychology, advanced psychodynamic theory, or ethics and professional development. In addition, you can choose a specialization that aligns with your interests.

Using academics, research, and religious studies, a doctorate in theology explores the divine and spiritual traditions around the world.

Many theology doctorate programs focus mostly on Christianity and the Bible. You may find yourself studying ethics, history, philosophy, literature, or ancient texts during this degree program.

Secular or religious careers in this field can include professor, social service manager, private school teacher, or director of religious education.

Types of Doctorate Degrees

There are a variety of quick doctorate degrees that do not take an extensive amount of time to complete:

Doctor of Education (EdD) . This professional degree is designed to prepare people for leadership roles in educational institutions. There is a greater focus on the application of research. This type of program can take approximately 3 years to complete.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) . This scholarly program can help you develop the advanced skills necessary to be a leader in your chosen field of expertise. A PhD is also common for those who are interested in research and academia. Some PhD programs can take around 3 years to complete, though a dissertation requirement may add time.
Doctor of Theology (ThD) . This degree combines research with religious studies. You can explore spiritual traditions through the study of literature, ancient religious texts, ethics, history, and liturgical practice. Some programs only take 2 years to complete.
Medical Doctorate (MD) . Earning a medical doctorate from an accredited institution is a requirement to become a licensed physician. You’d study patient ethics, management, and advanced healthcare practices, and you’d engage in research-based study. Some medical doctorates can be completed in 3 years with a residency.
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) . This research-based degree helps prepare you for management and leadership roles in a variety of business industries. Its aim is to train professionals and managers to develop and implement conceptual tools for innovative change within their businesses. It can take a minimum of 2 years to complete this doctorate degree.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) . This is the highest level of academic study for nursing available. A DNP enables nursing professionals to become experts in clinical nursing practice or to work in more focused roles outside of direct patient care. A DNP can take a minimum of 1 year to complete with a placement to follow.

There are many other doctorates available that may better align with your interests and career goals.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD?

A PhD generally takes 3 to 5 years to complete. Basically, how long it takes to get a doctorate degree will depend on the school and the individual program. It can also depend on the number of credit hours required and how long it takes to complete any dissertation requirement.

Some universities also offer part time PhD programs , which will of course take longer to complete than full time ones.

If no dissertation is required, a doctoral program can generally be completed in 3 years with full-time study. Some online PhD programs also offer accelerated courses to help you complete your degree more quickly.

Can You Get a Doctorate in 2 Years?

While it’s rare to obtain a PhD or doctorate in 2 years, there are some two year doctoral programs available. These programs require a full-time course load and extensive organizational and time management skills.

Some programs emphasize that a minimum of 2 years of study are required. A very few number of doctorate programs take a year of study plus a residency placement. Doctorate degree online no dissertation programs may take less time to complete as well.

If you want to get your doctorate as quickly as possible, you might want to subscribe to a full-time course load and find a reliable mentor to help you through the process. You can also prepare yourself to be completely immersed in academic research and writing.

Are There Any 1 Year Online Doctoral Programs?

If no dissertation is required, a doctoral program can typically be completed in 3 years with full-time study. There are some schools, though, that offer accelerated doctorates so you can try to finish sooner.

In addition, some programs require fewer credit hours overall. A program that consists of 35 credit hours may be completed in 2.5 years or less. Doctorates that consist of 27 credit hours may take 18 months or less.

There are a few rare doctoral programs that can be obtained in 1 year, usually because they require fewer credit hours and also have an accelerated learning option.

Here are some examples of doctorates that can require fewer credit hours:

Doctor of Nursing Practice
Doctor of Education
Doctor of Ministry
Doctor of Occupational Therapy

It’s strategic to research the scheduling and program requirements of the schools you are interested in.

What Is the Quickest Doctorate Degree to Get?

Doctorate programs can vary between schools and between areas of study. It is sometimes easier to define what the quickest doctoral degree is by highlighting the factors that can make a degree take longer to complete.

For example, many PhD programs require you to write a dissertation. Other programs, such as medical or nursing programs, can require a residency. Some online doctorate degrees with no dissertation require 400 hours or more of practicum experience. These factors can all extend the time spent in a program.

Some of the quickest doctoral programs are ones that have fewer credit hours and do not have dissertation or residency requirements. Being continuously enrolled year-round can also lessen the time it takes for you to complete your studies.

If you’re looking for the shortest doctoral program online, you might want to consider accelerated doctoral degrees. They truly put a focus on the speed, convenience, and advancement of their doctoral students.

Which Subject Is Easy for PhD?

All doctorates take extensive work and dedication, but you may find some programs to be less difficult than others based on your own interests and skill sets.

For example, the following humanities and social science subjects are often perceived as less difficult because they involve less math and science:

Anthropology
Communications

In addition, professional doctorates are sometimes perceived as less difficult than PhDs because they are more practice-based and do not tend to require dissertations.

Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD?

You do not always need a masters to get a PhD. Admissions criteria vary by each university, and some programs, typically bridge or direct-entry programs, admit students with just a bachelors degree.

Schools with bachelor-to-PhD programs generally admit undergraduate students who have an impressive application and a completed bachelors degree. There has been a rise in the number of bachelors-to-PhD programs available, so you may want to research the admissions requirements of the universities that interest you.

What’s the Difference Between a Professional Degree vs. Doctorate?

Here are some contrasting differences between a professional degree and a doctorate degree.

In some cases, a professional degree can still come with the title of doctor.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD vs. Doctorate Degree?

Here are some core differences between a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a professional doctorate degree.

Both degree paths can help qualify you for senior or leadership roles in your industry.

Is a Doctorate Worth It?

Yes, a doctorate is worth it for many students. Earning a doctorate degree allows you the opportunity to advance your skill set and expertise in your chosen field. In the process, it can also help qualify you to advance your career.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who earn a PhD or professional doctorate generally earn more than those with lower degrees.

Getting Your Doctorate Degree Online

Earning a doctorate degree online can be a flexible way to adapt terminal studies to your existing schedule. Online programs often allow you to decide how heavy you want your course load to be.

Choosing the ideal online doctorate degree for you depends on your previous work and educational experience, your interests, and your career goals. The convenience of advancing your skill set and specialized expertise online makes online doctoral programs a popular choice for students and professionals alike.

You can start exploring doctorate degrees from accredited universities today to find the ones that best align with your schedule and career goals.

2024 Easiest PhD Programs to Get Online [Guide]

If you’ve always wanted to put the title of “Doctor” in front of your name, then you might be curious about the easiest PhD to get. While all PhD studies require hard work, you may find some programs easier than others.

Surveying the landscape of available programs can give you an idea of which degree would be most suitable for your interests, availability, and academic skills.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Then, you can settle on the PhD program that not only will be easiest for you but could also contribute to achieving your goals.

Universities Offering Easiest Online PhD Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer PhD programs online or in a hybrid format with no dissertation, no residency requirement, no GRE or GMAT requirement, less math and science required, or accelerated programs.

Adams State University

Adams State University offers a PhD Counselor Education and Supervision. The low-residency program requires campus visits over the course of 4 summers. Cohorts begin each fall and follow a semester schedule.GRE or GMAT scores are not required. Adams State prefers 2 years of counseling experience for applicants.

Adams State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Amridge University

A PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies can be earned online through Amridge University. Courses are 8 to 14 weeks long. There are no residency requirements. On average, the 51 required credits may be completed in 4 years.

Amridge University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Capella University

Capella University offers several PhD programs, including Psychology, Education, Business Management, and Behavior Analysis. Most programs require a dissertation or capstone project. Capella does not require GRE or GMAT scores. Some programs require short residencies or field experiences. Courses are 10 weeks long.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado State University

A PhD in Music Therapy can be earned through Colorado State University. The program is in an accelerated format and may be completed in as little as 3 to 5 years. All courses are online and there are no residency requirements. The program does not require GRE or GMAT scores.

Colorado State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Concordia University – Chicago

Concordia University – Chicago offers a PhD in Leadership with an emphasis in Sports Leadership through its fully online program. Most courses are 8 weeks long, and dissertation and research courses are a full semester. On average, the program requirements may be completed in 3 years.

Concordia University – Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

East Carolina University

A PhD in Nursing is available through East Carolina University. All coursework is fully online. The low-residency program requires campus visits for immersive experiences for the first 2 years. GRE or GMAT scores are not required to apply. The program offers concentrations in Nursing Education and Nursing Leadership.

East Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Faulkner University

Faulkner University offers 3 online PhD programs, including Health Sciences, Humanities, and Biblical Studies. A dissertation is required and the program may allow presentation through a virtual meeting. Faulkner does not require applicants to submit GRE or GMAT scores. On average, the program may be completed in18 months.

Faulkner University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers multiple PhD programs. All programs are a PhD in General Psychology with emphases like Performance Psychology, Cognition and Instruction, and Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Most programs have low residency requirements and require sessions of 3 to 5 days on campus. Test scores may not be required.

GCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Hampton University

Hampton University offers 4 online PhD programs, including Business Administration, Nursing, Counselor Education and Supervision, and Education Management. Some programs are in a hybrid format and require short residencies during the summers. Applicants are not required to submit GMAT or GRE scores. There are start dates in the fall, spring, and summer.

Hampton University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Indiana State University

A PhD in Educational Administration with a concentration in Higher Education Leadership is offered through Indiana State University. The program requires 45 coursework hours and 15 dissertation hours. The program requires residencies during the summer. The required coursework can typically be completed in 5 semesters.

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Johnson University

Johnson University offers a PhD in Leadership Studies. The program is designed for those who want to further their careers. There are various concentrations, including Educational Leadership, Ministry Leadership, and Theology of Leadership. The program is online with start dates in the fall or spring semesters.

Johnson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a wide selection of online PhD programs. Many programs are fully online with some requiring short campus residencies for intensives. Courses are 8 weeks long, and there are 8 convenient start dates each year. Programs include Aviation, Organization and Management, Strategic Media, Bible Exposition, and Criminal Justice.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University

A PhD can be earned online through National University. While most programs are fully online, some require short residencies or internships. Courses are 4 weeks long, and there are several start dates throughout the year. National’s PhD programs include Business Administration, Technology Management, Human Resource Management, and Marriage and Family Therapy.

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Regent University

Regent University offers the opportunity to earn a PhD in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Entrepreneurial Leadership. The program is fully online and does not require GRE or GMAT scores. Courses are taught through a Christian worldview and include Kingdom Business Leadership Strategies. The program requires 60 credits.

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Trident University International

Trident University International offers a PhD in Educational Leadership. The program is fully online. Various concentrations are available including Educational Technology and Teaching, Learning, and Development. Courses are 12 weeks long and are offered during the fall, winter, spring, and summer. The program may allow credit for prior experience.

Trident University International is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona Global Campus offers 3 online PhD programs including Organizational Development and Leadership, Education, and Human Services. All residencies are virtual. Courses are asynchronous. Most doctoral courses are 6 weeks long, while capstone courses are 9 weeks. UAGC does not require GRE or GMAT scores.

The University of Arizona is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

University of Florida

The University of Florida offers multiple online PhD programs including Classical Civilization and Latin & Roman Studies. The programs are designed with flexible schedules and special sessions during breaks. Courses are online with aPhDresidency during the summer. The program requires 60 credits.

The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Missouri – Columbia

The University of Missouri – Columbia offers a PhD in Human Environmental Sciences with an emphasis in Architectural Studies. The program is fully online with no required residencies. UM offers an optional on-campus workshop during the summer. Courses follow a semester schedule. The program can typically be completed in 5 years.

The University of Missouri – Columbia is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Tennessee – Knoxville

A PhD in Educational Psychology and Research with a concentration in Adult & Continuing Education is available through the University of Tennessee – Knoxville. The program is fully online. Courses follow a semester schedule with fall and spring start dates. Test scores are not required to apply.

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University

Walden University offers several PhD programs online, including Counselor Education & Supervision, Criminal Justice, and Health Education & Promotion. Most programs are fully online and some require short residencies. The school offers course-based and self-paced programs with several yearly start dates.

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

What Is the Easiest PhD to Get?

You can expect every PhD program to be rigorous and challenging. Even still, there may be some programs that you’d find easier than others.

Because people have unique aptitudes and interests, everyone’s definition of “easy” is a bit different. Despite that, the following characteristics are often associated with easier PhD programs:

Asynchronous online classes
Fast-track course format—often involving 8 week classes
Fewer in-person campus visits required
Fewer science and mathematics classes
No dissertation required
Opportunity to transfer in multiple credits
Shorter overall length

The following programs are often listed among the easiest and fastest PhD programs online. Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

PhD in Business Administration

Phd in counseling, phd in criminal justice, phd in education, phd in human services, phd in public administration, phd in public health, phd in public policy, phd in psychology, phd in theology.

Exploring your options may help you determine which academic path is right for you.

Business administrator monitoring company operations

For a business PhD, you may take classes in econometrics, information systems, decision-making, innovation, and statistics.

There are often many concentration options available, including finance, organizational leadership, marketing, and management. Your focus area will largely determine what classes you take. A business-related PhD will address theories of effective business practices and leadership.

This degree could help prepare you to teach business courses or spearhead research in management and operations. Having a business PhD could also equip you to take a lead role in your organization, such as becoming a chief executive.

Counseling psychologist in a session with patient

Topics addressed in counseling PhD programs often include counseling techniques, personality theories, human development, and mental disorders. The classes may also teach you about developing and evaluating programs.

You may gain practical experience in a real-world counseling setting. Some students who get this degree opt for a concentration in counselor supervision. That track would prepare you to help future psychology students gain the education and experience they’ll need.

With this degree, you might teach psychology classes or become a licensed counseling psychologist who works with patients.

As a student in a criminal justice PhD program, you will study criminology and victimology. The classes may teach you about terrorism, intelligence, and security. It’s possible you will learn about new developments in forensics. You’ll also spend time thinking about policies and practices for preventing crime and rehabilitating offenders.

Having this degree would qualify you to teach criminal justice to college students, but there are also many practitioner paths you could take with it. The options might include policymaking, criminal profiling and investigations, and military leadership.

College professor giving lecture in class

PhD students in education programs often study learning theories and educational technology. If you enroll in this program, you may also discuss issues facing modern schools and consider solutions.

Many education PhDs focus on curriculum and instruction. Students study the best ways to help learners acquire and retain new information. Within that discipline, there may be a variety of concentrations available, such as early childhood and literacy.

PhD holders may be leaders in school districts and state boards of education. Being a college professor who trains future educators is another potential option.

Researchers on social issues, discussing results of their surveys

As a student in a human services program, you are likely to study social issues and potential solutions. Possible topics include mental health, crime, disaster management, and aging populations.

In addition, you may gain practical skills related to the responsibilities involved in leading human services organizations. For example, you might study grant writing, needs assessment, and program implementation.

With a human services PhD, you may become a researcher or a policymaker who considers ways to address social issues. You could also lead community organizations designed for meeting people’s needs.

Public administrator of an NGO, discussing with staff

The courses in a public administration PhD program often cover organizational theories, policymaking procedures, management techniques, and program leadership. You might also study economics, finance, human resources, decision-making, and strategic planning.

Some PhD programs include joint studies in both public administration and public policy. Learning about public administration at the doctoral level might help prepare you to lead government or nonprofit organizations. It could also be useful for anyone interested in directing public policy, conducting policy-related research, teaching public administration courses, or working in a legislative capacity.

Healthcare services manager, greeting some hospital staff

Doctoral candidates in public health learn about biostatistics and epidemiology. It’s also helpful to understand factors that influence people’s health, such as genetics, environment, and human behavior.

If you get a PhD in Public Health, you may study grant writing, health ethics, and the structure of the healthcare system as well. This PhD could be useful for anyone who wants to be involved in research and development for public health policies. The degree could also lead to a career as a public health professor or the leader of a healthcare organization.

Government researchers discussing research data

Advanced study in public policy requires learning about economics, political science, sociology, and statistics. You’ll also practice both quantitative and qualitative analysis.

Your curriculum may include classes in modern social justice issues, nonprofit leadership, policy ethics, and international development. The degree may allow you to specialize in a certain area of public policy. Examples include education, healthcare, poverty, and energy.

Public policy PhD holders know how to conduct critical analyses that can influence policy development. As researchers or educators, they may work in university, government, or NGO settings.

Clinical psychologist assessing a patient's progress

The curriculum for your PhD in Psychology might include classes in psychological testing, human development, cognitive processes, change management, and survey methods.

You may also learn how to teach psychology concepts to students and provide valuable consulting services to organizations. As a student in psychology, you might choose a concentration area. Ideas include health psychology, developmental psychology, educational psychology, and community psychology.

People with PhDs in Psychology often work as professors, social science researchers, or consultants. They might also qualify to become licensed to work in private practice or other healthcare settings as clinical or counseling psychologists.

Ministry leader talking with a church member

For a degree in theology, students may learn about religious traditions, sacred texts, belief systems, and ethical teachings. Theology degrees are often offered by religious universities, and most focus on the teachings and practices of the Christian tradition.

To earn this PhD, you might be required to become proficient in one or more languages. Common examples are Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. French and German may be options too. Graduates may become theology or religion professors in the US or overseas. Alternatively, they may become authors or ministry leaders.

Easy PhD Programs Admissions Requirements

Man preparing requirements for PhD programs

Even if you are selecting one of the easiest or shortest PhD programs, you’ll still go through an extensive application process. A few common requirements are listed below:

Goal statement to let the school know about your research interests and career plans
Official transcripts from all colleges you’ve attended
Recommendation letters
GRE or GMAT test scores (not required at all schools)

Many PhD programs require you to hold a master’s degree before applying.

Easiest PhD Programs Accreditation

When you’re searching for the easiest doctoral degree, you may come across some unaccredited universities that promise easy PhDs. While their programs may be tempting, it’s advantageous to focus your attention only on accredited schools. Even when hoping for an easy degree, you don’t want to compromise on quality.

Regionally accredited colleges have shown themselves to be quality institutions where you’ll receive a credible education. The credits often transfer between schools, and the degrees they confer earn employers’ respect.

Should I Get a PhD?

If you want to be a college instructor, then getting a PhD would certainly be an asset. The academia-focused PhD degree is often a strategic choice for aspiring university-level educators.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that postsecondary instructors earn a median of $79,640 annually. A PhD is a large commitment, though. Even if you choose one of the easiest programs, you’ll dedicate significant time and effort to this undertaking. It can help to be a person who thoroughly enjoys school, particularly the research and writing aspects.

Do You Need a Masters to Get a PhD?

Not all PhD programs require a masters degree as part of the admissions process. Some regularly admit students straight from undergraduate programs. Whether you’ll be able to find PhD programs like that will likely depend on your field of study.

Keep in mind that master’s degrees prepare students for graduate-level research. If you haven’t previously earned a graduate degree, then you may be required to take some foundational classes near the beginning of your PhD program.

What Can You Do with a PhD?

People with PhDs often become educators at the college level. Working as a higher education administrator is a similar line of work for people with PhDs to consider. Other graduates become scientific researchers. Examples include medical scientists, information research scientists, sociologists, and economists.

A PhD may qualify someone to head up research projects. Some people with PhDs work as practitioners in their field. For example, some PhD professionals work as business executives or clinical psychologists, depending on their field.

Can You Get a PhD Online?

Yes, many students earn their PhDs online! Programs offered online are often considered among the easiest PhDs to get because of their flexible nature. They don’t require relocating to a college campus or attending classes at set times. Rather, you can fit online studies into your regular life.

Some PhD programs ask online students to come to campus occasionally. You may be required to attend a week-long intensive session or meet with your faculty advisor. Other programs are fully online, and you can even defend your dissertation through the computer.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD Online?

In general, 3 to 5 years is a pretty common timeframe for earning a PhD. Usually, programs involve a couple of years of classes followed by several years of dissertation work.

If you can complete your dissertation quickly—or if your program doesn’t require a dissertation—you can graduate sooner. Many no-dissertation online PhD programs can be completed in 3 years or less. In some fields, you may even find the option for a 12-month or 18-month doctorate without dissertation.

How Much Does a PhD Cost?

People taking PhD, doing their research works

There’s a wide range of typical costs for PhD programs, but many schools charge between $600 and $1,000 per credit hour.

The number of credit hours required will depend not only on how many classes you’re required to take but also on how long you spend working on your dissertation. For a less expensive degree, you could focus your school search on in-state public universities. You might be able to receive a resident rate of just $300 to $400 per credit hour.

Are There 1 Year Online Doctoral Programs?

student taking a 1-year online Doctoral program

It may be possible for you to earn a doctorate in close to 1 year. Most PhD programs take 3 years or more, but there are exceptions. To finish school in 1 year, it’d be necessary to pick the easiest PhD without dissertation.

Writing a dissertation can take several years, but not all doctoral degrees require this major project. For 1 year online doctoral programs , you’ll likely want a program with year-round coursework offered in an accelerated format. For example, you may be able to complete each course in just 1 month or 2 months.

What’s the Difference Between a Doctorate vs. PhD Degree?

There are different types of doctoral degrees, including professional doctorates and PhDs. Consider which is best for you.

Many students can finish professional doctorates more quickly than PhDs—often 1 year or 2 years faster.

Getting Your PhD Degree Online

Your future plans may include earning one of the easiest doctorate degrees. Getting a PhD could enhance your life and career in many ways. You may feel personally fulfilled after achieving this goal, and it might help you secure your dream career as well.

How many PhD programs should you apply to ? To ensure that you have sufficient time to create well-crafted applications for each university, it is generally advised by experts to consider applying to a range of 4 to 6 PhD programs.

If you choose an easier PhD program, doctoral studies may not take over your life. Rather, you might be able to quickly complete school while also balancing your personal responsibilities. Getting your PhD online could really help with that.

With online PhD studies, you can earn your degree from anywhere. What could you get a PhD in ? You could start exploring accredited universities with easy PhD programs today!

Studying PhD in the USA 2023 - 2024: Your Complete Guide

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Studying PhD in the USA 2023 - 2024: Your Complete Guide

Thinking about PhD? Think America!

PhD in the USA comes not only with a substantial recognition of your expertise but also impacts your overall growth in person. Learning shoulder to shoulder with the best minds that walked on this planet is a privilege. Starting from engineering, computer science, applied sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medicine to management, you may earn your PhD in the USA in the program of your choice. There are many fully funded PhD programs in America for international students in 2023 that you may opt for, too. Overwhelmed? Don’t worry; reading this blog is the first step which may guide you to your dreams of studying PhD programs in the U.S.A. Let’s keep scrolling!

Why Study PhD in the USA?

The top reasons to study in the USA include unparalleled academic excellence, American prestige , choices of flexible college programs alongside the best Universities like Stanford and Harvard and a diverse range of courses offered for PhD in the USA.

1. Course Length of PhD in the USA

Students prefer to earn their degree in the USA for the flexibility of the PhD programs in the USA for international students in 2023. The duration of your PhD in the country may vary from program to program. The maximum no. of years a part-time doctoral student spends is ten years. In other cases, full-time enrollment in PhD programs in the United States of America demands a minimum of 4 years. There are many online PhD programs in the country you may go for. Adding more to the best things about studying in the USA, you will also have the option of one-year PhD programs in the USA.

2. Top-Notch Universities

If the USA were to be a person, it would have definitely boasted about being the top destination country with its cities encompassing every aspect of a student’s dream. The hunt for knowledge seems never ending in the top institutes for PhD in the USA. The USA is home to distinguished universities like Harvard and Stanford. Studying Doctor of Philosophy in the USA means you will never have to look back.

And, just in case you are very prepared and have the merits for pursuing a PhD in the U.S.A. for international students, the chances are high that you might get an acceptance letter from the oldest universities in the world. The fully funded PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023 add to the glee of every applicant. Most public and private universities conduct intakes year-long. Also, the intakes for 2023-2024 in the USA are ongoing. You may go ahead and plan accordingly and not miss the opportunity of studying at world-class universities and the best faculty.

3. Diversity in the College Campuses

The USA is the pioneer in neo-cultural globalisation or, let us rather say, the initiator of cultural diversity. The USA is home to approximately 9,50,000 international students, making up 5.5% of the international diaspora in the US. The whooping number of students choosing the USA as their destination for higher studies is a testimony to the diversity of the beautiful campuses host.

4. Availability of Scholarships for PhD in the USA

The education system of the USA is very well devised to serve the needs of every student enrolling for PhD degree in the USA. There are many scholarships available for PhD students in the American universities. The scholarships allow you to pursue a fully funded PhD in the USA for international students 2023. There are entities such as the Government of the USA, universities and various private organisations that extend scholarships to students with merits and credible need of funds to pursue their PhD programs in the USA. We will be discussing it further in some moments.

5. Availability of Jobs after PhD in the USA

American universities typically have vibrant campus communities with a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs and organisations. As a student, you will have the opportunity to engage in various social, cultural and recreational activities alongside your academic studies.

Best Universities for PhD Programs in the USA

1. harvard university.

Tuition Fees: $78,000 ‍Acceptance rate: 4% QS Ranking: 4th

US Ranking: 2nd

Top Courses: Arts & Humanities, Business & Management, Engineering & Technology, Life Sciences & Medicine, Social Sciences & Management

Intake Seasons: Fall/Spring

Famous Alumni: Bill Gates

Harvard University stands as one of the best universities in the USA and the entire world. The university enrols close to 22,947 students annually, making it one of the toughest universities to get into as well. The university hosts a range of PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023, including chemical biology, engineering, immunology and neuroscience, among other top PhD programs in the U.S.A. The campus is also home to the largest library system in the world.

2. Stanford University

Average Fees: $80,000 ‍Acceptance rate: 16% QS Ranking: 5th

US Ranking: 3rd

Eligibility: GPA: 4, SAT: 1465, ACT: 31.5, IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 90, GMAT: 690, GRE: 162

Intake Seasons: Fall

Famous Alumni: Elon Musk

Located in the silicon valley, the university is a pioneering institution brimming with knowledge. As a campus that is spread across more than 8,000 acres and home to 16,000+ students flocking in from various parts of the world each year, it is one of the best choices for PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023.

3. University of Chicago

Average Fees: $78,000 ‍Acceptance rate: 6.5% QS Ranking: 11th

US Ranking: 12th

Intake Seasons: All Seasons

Famous Alumni: Susan Sontag

The University of Chicago introduces you to a world that's transformational, effective and always on the go. The campus is home to more than 17,000 students and boasts of one-of-its-kind diversity. A wide number of PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023 makes it one of the top choices for students in the world.

Top 3 PhD Scholarships in the USA

There may be situations where you wish to pursue PhD in the USA but are unable to take your leap of faith due to financial constraints. You may enroll in fully funded PhD programs in the U.S.A for international students 2023 with the help of the scholarships provided for PhD in the U.S.A. We have listed below the best scholarships for PhD in the United States of America.

1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program

Amount: $35,000

Provider: Binational Fullbright Commission/US Embassies

Deadline: 17th May, 2023

Expenses Covered: Tuition and fees, Round-trip travel, Living expenses and others

The scholarship offered by the organisation for PhD in the U.S.A. comes by as a ray of hope in your tough times. The scholarships help you move further towards a bright future backed by the PhD programs in the U.S.A. from top educational institutions.

2. AAUW International Fellowships

Amount: $20,000

Provider: American Association of University Women

Expenses Covered: Full tuition and Fees

Deadline: 1st December, 2023

The scholarship is one of the oldest, largest and most competitive scholarships for PhD in the U.S.A. The scholarship or fellowship is offered to women from across the world. The scholarship aims at boosting the contribution of women in the field of research and development. And transforming the world.

3. Campbell Fellowships for Transformative Research

Amount: $54,000

Provider: School of Advanced Research

Expenses Covered: Stipend, Tuition fees waiver, Registration costs

Deadline: November, 2023

The scholarship is among the best short-term scholarships for PhD in the USA for women scholars. The duration of the Campbell fellowship lies between 6 months to 9 months. The scholarship is awarded to female scholars who are working in global research for women in developing nations.

Application Requirements for PhD in the USA

Pursuing a PhD on American soil sounds like a dream come true. However, the process of application is extensive and requires due diligence and the best research before the selection of the scholarships and the colleges or the courses. We have tried to help you out below with some of the many requirements for applying for scholarships for PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023. Scroll for the list below:

1. Applying

The first step is completing the application form before the deadline. You may check out the websites of the scholarships and universities and keep track of deadlines.

There are two types of scholarships. One is an easy scholarship which might not require an essay, and there are scholarships for PhD in the U.S.A. demanding essays. Thus, depending on the requirement, prepare an essay describing the needs of the scholarship for you.

3. Credible References

You must collect credible sources of references while applying for the scholarships. The reference must align with the PhD programs in the USA for international students 2023 you are applying for.

4. Competitive Exam Scores

Receiving a scholarship for PhD in the United States of America comes with criteria of scores in competitive exams like IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT, SAT, and ACT, among many others. Take your tests well to qualify for the applications of scholarships to transform your PhD into fully funded PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023.

Top 3 Jobs Options After PhD in the USA

1. professor/ lecturer.

After completing your PhD in the U.S.A., you become eligible for the position of lecturer or professor in the top universities in the world.

2. Scientific Assessor

The job of a scientific assessor is also available post you earn your degree in any of the PhD programs in the U.S.A. for international students 2023.

3. Research & development

A PhD in the U.S.A. makes you eligible to apply for jobs in the research and development field. If your field of study is research-oriented, you may have job opportunities in some of the best research institutes in the world nestled in the USA.

Hope you are ready to resume or take forward the academic journey you have been aiming for. The blog was just an initiative for you to understand the overall landscape of PhD in the U.S.A. You may get in touch with us via the comment section below or DM us on our Instagram channel for additional info you might need.

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HOW DOES A PHD WORK (USA)?
How Long Does It Take To Get a PhD?
Is Getting A PhD Worth It: Benefits, Requirement, Cons & More

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Elon Musk Why NOT To Get PhD

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How difficult is it to get a PhD? The real doctorate struggles
One of the most challenging aspects of obtaining a PhD is that it takes a great deal of time and dedication. You shouldn't underestimate how easily your brain plays tricks on you over a multi-year project. Staying on course and ignoring your internal monologue is one of the most challenging parts again a PhD.
Is a PhD really worth it? : r/PhD
It was a great use of part of my life. If you view school as an arduous ordeal and measure your success by your lifetime earnings, then a PhD likely isn't worth it. If you think school is fun and you measure success by doing a job that you enjoy, then it is much more likely to be worth it. Reply reply. HereWeGoReddi.
How Hard Is a PhD? What You Should Know Before Starting
A PhD is a long and challenging degree that requires years of research, writing and assessment. Learn about the main obstacles, differences between full-time and part-time study, and how to prepare for the viva.
How Hard Is It to Get a PhD? What You Should Know
In the UK, PhD graduates usually apply for postdoctoral or fellowship positions. Contracts tend to range from six months to five years. After a few years of additional experience then you might begin applying for permanent academic positions. Finding these roles without having to move can also be difficult.
The Top 10 Easiest PhDs: Tuition, Duration, and Financial Aid
Learn about the easiest PhDs across various fields, such as education, psychology, and humanities. Compare programs based on criteria like flexibility, duration, and cost.
How Hard is a PhD in America?
Introduction. Getting a PhD in America is a challenging and difficult process that requires dedication, hard work, and a lot of perseverance. It can be a lonely and isolating experience, as students often spend long hours in the lab or library working on their research, and the uncertainty of the research process can add to the stress.
How Hard is a PhD?
It's very easy to develop bad habits during your PhD such as: Eating badly and drinking too much coffee; Getting stressed and working long hours; ... As long as you get the work done a good PhD supervisor doesn't tend to care how you schedule your time so could fit quite nicely around other commitments such as childcare. Sometimes people ...
Is a PhD Worth It? The Pros and Cons of Getting a Doctorate
A doctorate degree commitment can affect more than just you, so be sure you're factoring that into your decision. Review specifically which PhD would be best for you and your field progression. Research your chosen field carefully and evaluate the job market before you finalize your degree choice. Once you've selected your degree, stay ...
How to Get A PhD: A Step-by-Step Guide
Once you've been admitted to a PhD program, the true adventure commences. Here's what you can expect during your doctoral expedition: 2. Choose Your Field of Study. The initial and pivotal step is selecting your field of study. Your choice should reflect your passions, interests, and long-term career aspirations.
How Do I Get Into a PhD Program? A Guide for Aspiring PhDs
Learn about the steps, requirements, and tips for applying to a PhD program in various fields. Find out what a PhD is, whether you need a Master's degree, and how to overcome low GPA or lack of experience.
Easiest Ph.D. Degrees
Getting a Ph.D. can be hard work, but some programs are more flexible and accessible than others. Find out more about the easiest Ph.D. programs. ... An asynchronous online program may be the easiest Ph.D. to get for working professionals. This delivery method allows you to complete your studies during the hours that suit you best. An ...
The Path of How to Get a PhD
Here's a look at the PhD application timeline and curriculum you can expect, from the first meeting with your program supervisor to your graduation and beyond. 1. Initial Meeting with Your Academic Advisor. One of the first things you'll do as a PhD student is meet with your academic advisor or supervisor.
So you want to get a PhD in theology
Prayer enters at this point for a final time. If the job of the doctoral candidate is study, study, study, the job of the disciple is pray, pray, pray. Prayer will carry you through, whichever path you end up on. Let's say, then, that my advice is not for the PhD-curious to abandon all hope. Abandon all false hope, yes.
Is Getting a PhD Worth It?
It's not always easy to calculate the monetary value of a PhD, but many PhDs will tell you that the return they've received on their investment (ROI) was more than worth it. ... Getting a PhD has a lot of benefits, but there are risks to consider, too. The time commitment: this may take years. PhD programs take an average of 6 years to ...
The Ivy League
PhD tuition fees at Ivy League universities. An Ivy League PhD guarantees a very high standard of education - but all that prestige comes at a price! You can expect to pay an average annual tuition fee of $48,405 for a PhD at an Ivy League university. All eight members are all private universities - but their PhD tuition fees are still ...
Easiest PhD Programs to Get into
The easiest PhD programs to get into are not the easiest ones to complete. Ultimately, if you are thinking about entering a PhD program, you need to weigh the benefits (potentially higher earnings, more employment opportunities, expert-level education) of pursuing the degree and the disadvantages (significant investment of time and money ...
How hard is it to get a PhD? Definitely not easy!
Definitely not easy! - Master Academia. Getting a PhD is a long-term commitment that requires a high degree of self-responsibility, commitment, and perseverance, which makes it a difficult task. PhD students have to deal with vaguely defined tasks, limited guidance, and multitasking frequently. Moreover, they are prone to mental health ...
What Is the Easiest Doctorate Degree? [2024 Guide]
The easiest PhD to get can also depend on your own interests, skills, and strengths. For example, someone with strengths in English and communication might not consider it easy to obtain a doctorate in chemistry. Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide: Business Administration; Counseling; Criminal ...
Is getting phd admissions easy? : r/gradadmissions
Is getting phd admissions easy? Computer Sciences Is getting phd admissions in and around computer science, in top ivy colleges easier than getting a masters in computer science in same top ivy colleges? Locked post. New comments cannot be posted. Share Sort by: Best. Open comment sort options ...
2024 Easiest PhD Programs to Get Online [Guide]
A PhD in Nursing is available through East Carolina University. All coursework is fully online. The low-residency program requires campus visits for immersive experiences for the first 2 years. GRE or GMAT scores are not required to apply. The program offers concentrations in Nursing Education and Nursing Leadership.
Where To Earn A Ph.D. In Computer Science Online In 2024
The high cost of a graduate degree can make postsecondary education seem out of reach for many. Total tuition for the programs on this list costs $57,000 at Capital Tech and around $59,000 at NU ...
Is getting a PhD in philosophy worth it if I love the field ...
Current philosophy PhD student here! Phds are way more marketable than people think (esp. if you're able to get into a good program), and if you are able to get into a funded program, the only thing you're putting in is time, and if you love it, not a waste. I have no interest in being an academic when I'm done, and I don't regret it at ...
Studying PhD in the USA 2023
1. Course Length of PhD in the USA. Students prefer to earn their degree in the USA for the flexibility of the PhD programs in the USA for international students in 2023. The duration of your PhD in the country may vary from program to program. The maximum no. of years a part-time doctoral student spends is ten years.
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Your Startup's First Customers Are Easy to Get When You Target These
Getting a startup's first customers is always hard. But you can make it easier for yourself by understanding that certain potential customers are more convincible than others. Your goal is to find those customers, and I'm going to explain how. In order to explain, I need to start by sharing a silly story.

The Top 10 Easiest PhDs: Tuition, Duration, and Financial Aid

The Easiest PhD Majors

The Easiest PhD Programs

Walden University, The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Human Sciences

Capella University

The University of Florida, Department of Classics

Faulkner University

Regent University

Boston University, College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College

The University of Tennessee Knoxville, College of Social Work

New York University, School of Law

North Carolina State University, College of Design

Frontier Nursing University

What’s the Difference Between a Professional Degree and a Doctorate?

FAQs about the Easiest PhDs

Which Subject Is Easy for a PhD?

Final Thoughts

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How Hard is a PhD?

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So how hard is a PhD?

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So is a PhD easy?

How a PhD can be hard

Self motivation

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Imposter Syndrome

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Solving problems

Public speaking

Some example issues you might have to overcome as a PhD student

Overcoming PhD challenges

Has my PhD been hard?

Thesis-writing

In summary, how hard is a PhD?

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