How Do You Earn a PhD Online?
Many accredited universities now offer online doctoral programs that keep the working professional in mind. Online institutions such as Capella University, Kaplan University, and the University of Phoenix, all have doctoral programs, but they are not the only options. Many campus-based universities, including the University of Arizona, Colorado State University, and Texas Tech University, also offer online doctorate options.
Independent Study
An online doctoral program may seem like a strange idea. A doctorate is the highest form of education offered at most universities in the United States. As such, this degree commands a great deal of respect, and isn't normally associated with online colleges. However, once you consider how independently driven most doctoral programs are, the concept of an online doctoral program makes more sense. Independent research is a substantial portion of any doctoral program, whether it is completed online or at a traditional university.
With current technology, more and more traditional doctoral programs are teaching online classes via online services, such as Blackboard. According to Blackboard's website, it “offers a suite of communication and collaboration tools that enhance student engagement and provide opportunities for social learning.” These services facilitate turning in papers online, as well as hosting discussion boards and being a communication hub for students and professors.
Hybrid Education
Of course, in scientific fields of study, lab time is necessary, so an online doctoral program in one of these fields cannot be entirely online. Most of the class work—such as reading, researching, and test taking—can still be done online, but the programs blend those online components with in-house lab sessions. Also, even though online doctoral programs are driven by independent research, most require that students make occasional on-campus visits. These visits may last for a five- to 10-day period, like at the University of Arizona's doctoral nursing program, or they may be lab time whenever necessary, but most programs do require physical presence from time to time.
Drawbacks
The disadvantage of earning an online doctorate is the lack of face-to-face time with professors and other students. In a class, students can ask questions and get immediate answers. Even in today's technologically advanced world, it can take days to get a response to a question that is posed in an email or online discussion board. A lack of interaction with other students can make it difficult to collaborate, which can be troublesome for students in a difficult doctoral program.
Completing a PhD online or at a traditional school requires drive and self-motivation, but online PhD programs will require even more self discipline from students. There is no one around to remind you when things need to be done.
Article Resources:
Blackboard
"Notes on the PhD Degree" Douglas E. Comer
Northcentral University
University of Arizona
U.S. Census Bureau
"Graduate School in the Humanities: Just Don't Go"
National Center for Education Statistics
National Science Foundation
Fast Tracking a PhD