# Online doctoral degree programs

An online doctoral degree is your opportunity to stand apart in your field. Become a leader that can drive change and leave an impact. Make the choice to step up. From corporations to your community, your professional doctorate prepares you with leadership skills that empower you to make a difference.

## Let's get started

[Request Info](https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information)[Apply Now](https://www.phoenix.edu/application/quick-app/personal-info)
## Program finder

- [Doctor of Business Administration](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-business-degrees/business-administration-doctoral-degree.html)
- [Doctor of Management](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-business-degrees/management-doctoral-degree.html)
- [Doctor of Education Degree (EdD)](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-education-degrees/doctor-of-education.html)
- [Doctor of Health Administration (DHA)](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-healthcare-degrees/health-administration-doctoral-degree.html)
- [Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-nursing-degrees/nursing-practice-doctoral-degree.html)

Interested in a Doctorate in Nursing Practice?  
Learn more about the[online doctorate nursing degree](/online-nursing-degrees/doctoral.html).

## Doctoral degree program length

The doctoral degree program length can vary by program expectations. Course extensions, research proposals, and research and dissertation can all impact the duration and cost of doctoral studies. That's why our doctoral support team is here to guide you every step of the way. Review your selected program for details.

If you have questions, speak to our dedicated doctoral enrollment representative.

![](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_copy_251032175/container_1248973217/container_copy_copy__616267172/container/image.coreimg.svg/1705695903891/phone-icon-white-circle.svg)

[602-544-3737](tel:6025443737)

[602-544-3737](tel:1-602-544-3737)
## Two dissertation pathways. One rigorous doctoral experience. 

University of Phoenix doctoral students may complete their dissertation through one of two pathways: traditional or applied. Both follow the same curriculum, credit hours, academic rigor, faculty guidance, Institutional Review Board (IRB) requirements and oral defense process. The primary difference is the type of research conducted and how the findings are communicated.  

### How do the dissertation pathways differ?

**How do the dissertation pathways differ?**

|  | Traditional dissertation | Applied dissertation |
|---|---|---|
| Typically appropriate when Typically appropriate when | Typically appropriate when The study explores problems of knowledge grounded in scholarly literature  | Typically appropriate when The study investigates a defined problem of practice within an organizational or professional setting |
| Research focus Research focus | Research focus Research investigates problems of knowledge to advance scholarly understanding | Research focus Research explores problems of practice to generate evidence that informs professional practice and decision-making  |
| Study context Study context | Study context Research may involve organizations or professional settings, but the problem is not bounded to a single organizational context | Study context Research is centered on a defined problem of practice within a specific organizational or professional setting  |
| Final deliverable Final deliverable | Final deliverable Five-chapter dissertation manuscript | Final deliverable Applied research report, executive summary and supporting deliverables |
| Primary audience Primary audience | Primary audience Scholarly and academic audiences | Primary audience Academic or professional audiences |

Traditional dissertation

**Typically appropriate when**The study explores problems of knowledge grounded in scholarly literature

**Research focus**Research investigates problems of knowledge to advance scholarly understanding

**Study context**Research may involve organizations or professional settings, but the problem is not bounded to a single organizational context

**Final deliverable**Five-chapter dissertation manuscript

**Primary audience**Scholarly and academic audiences

Applied dissertation

**Typically appropriate when**  
The study investigates a defined problem of practice within an organizational or professional setting

**Research focus**  
Research explores problems of practice to generate evidence that informs professional practice and decision-making

**Study context**  
Research is centered on a defined problem of practice within a specific organizational or professional setting

**Final deliverables**  
Applied research report, executive summary and supporting deliverables

**Primary audience**  
Academic or professional audiences 

![Illustration of the UOPX dissertation pathway guide](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/dissertation-comparison.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=270)

This comparison is intended as a general guide. The appropriate pathway depends on your research topic, methodology and the feasibility of your study. Doctoral faculty can help determine which pathway best aligns with your research. 

[View dissertation pathway guide](https://multimedia.phoenix.edu/cms/202661590)
### The dissertation journey: step by step

Both dissertation pathways follow the same five-phase process for developing and completing doctoral research. The activities and deliverables within each phase vary based on the pathway.

1. 1. Identify the problem
2. 2. Refine the study
3. 3. Develop the framework
4. 4. Finalize the design
5. 5. Analyze & communicate findings
1. Identify the problem
#### 1. Identify the problem

Establish a strong foundation for your research by identifying a meaningful problem of knowledge or practice and start drafting your research plan.  

![A doctoral student works to identify a problem for his traditional dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-one-traditional.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Traditional Dissertation

Identify a research problem grounded in scholarly literature and draft your research plan.  

![A student and faculty member discuss a problem of practice for an applied dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-1-applied.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Applied Dissertation

Identify a defined problem of practice within an organizational or professional setting and draft a research plan aligned with that context.

![Your faculty will serve as your guide throughout the dissertation process](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-1-illo.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=600)

Faculty guide you as you establish alignment among your research problem, purpose, research questions, study design, conceptual framework and the feasibility of your proposed study.

[View dissertation pathway guide](https://multimedia.phoenix.edu/cms/202661590)2. Refine the study
#### 2. Refine the study

Continue developing your study by refining key research elements, validating alignment and confirming your research is ready to move forward.

![A student refines her study for her traditional dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-2-traditional.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Traditional Dissertation

Refine your research problem, purpose statement and research design while strengthening the scholarly foundation for your study within existing literature. 

![Doctoral students discuss their applied dissertation studies](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-2-applied.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Applied Dissertation

Refine your applied research plan while validating organizational alignment, research feasibility and ethical readiness. 

![Your faculty will serve as your guide as you work on your dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-illo-2.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=500)

Faculty guide you as you refine your study and confirm it’s aligned, feasible and ready for the next phase.  

[View dissertation pathway guide](https://multimedia.phoenix.edu/cms/202661590)3. Develop the framework
#### 3. Develop the framework

Strengthen the conceptual foundation for your study by synthesizing research and demonstrating why your research problem matters.

![A student develops the framework of her traditional dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-3-traditional.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Traditional Dissertation

Develop your literature review and theoretical framework by synthesizing scholarly research related to your research problem.

![A student develops a concept manuscript for an applied dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-3-applied.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Applied Dissertation

Develop a concept manuscript that positions your problem of practice within broader professional, disciplinary and systemic contexts.

![A doctoral student wears a backpack and carries a laptop](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-3-illo.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=500)

Both pathways strengthen the conceptual foundation for rigorous doctoral research while preparing you to conduct ethical research through Human Subjects Protection training.

[View dissertation pathway guide](https://multimedia.phoenix.edu/cms/202661590)4. Finalize the design
#### 4. Finalize the design

Finalize your research design by preparing your study for ethical review, required approvals and data collection.

![A student finalizes the design of a traditional dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-4-traditional.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Traditional Dissertation

Complete your dissertation proposal, obtain the necessary approvals and prepare your study for IRB review before beginning data collection.

![A student works on a laptop, finalizing the design of her applied dissertation](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-4-applied.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Applied Dissertation

Complete your applied research methods package and prepare your study for IRB review and implementation within the approved research setting.

![A student prepares a study for ethical review](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-4-illo.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=500)

Working with your dissertation committee, you'll finalize your research design and prepare your study for ethical review and data collection.

[View dissertation pathway guide](https://multimedia.phoenix.edu/cms/202661590)5. Analyze & communicate findings
#### 5. Analyze & communicate findings

Analyze your findings, communicate your research and complete the final requirements of your doctoral study. 

![A student defends her traditional dissertation before the dissertation committee](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-5-traditional.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Traditional Dissertation

Complete your dissertation manuscript, interpret your findings and defend your research before the dissertation committee.

![A student meets with a doctoral committee, defending his applied dissertation research](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-5-applied.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=923)

Applied Dissertation

Complete your applied research report, executive summary and dissemination plan before defending your research and communicating findings to scholarly, professional and organizational audiences. 

![A student makes her oral defense](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-5-illo.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=500)

Complete your doctoral journey by demonstrating the quality and impact of your research through a successful oral defense. 

[View dissertation pathway guide](https://multimedia.phoenix.edu/cms/202661590)
### Dedicated doctoral support

Questions about our dissertation pathways? The College of Doctoral Studies has a dedicated team of enrollment representatives and academic counselors who are ready to answer all your questions.

[Request info](https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information)
![A UOPX enrollment representative who is dedicated to serving doctoral students](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/doc-dissertation-support-mobile.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=600)

## Support for your doctoral degree

Your success as a doctoral student matters to us. That’s why we provide you with a customized support system that helps you reach your leadership goals with confidence. 

![](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_278355984__436161370/columns/responsivegrid0/container_copy_86601/image.coreimg.svg/1694212886911/igrad.svg)

Doctoral-dedicated graduation team  
Receive doctoral-focused support from an enrollment rep and academic advisor who understands your doctoral journey.

![](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_278355984__436161370/columns/responsivegrid0/container_copy_86601_1901568965/image.coreimg.svg/1694212952738/instructor.svg)

Dissertation support  
Rely on dissertation support and assistance from our faculty including the Dissertation Chair, University Research Methodologist, and Panel Validator. They are ready to assist you early in your program and throughout the completion of your dissertation.

![](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_278355984__436161370/columns/responsivegrid0/container_copy_86601_1217744656/image.coreimg.svg/1694212986896/book-pages.svg)

College of Doctoral Studies resource repository  
Explore the Research Hub, a vital source of information, materials, guides, webinars and workshops relevant to your success as a doctoral student. 

![](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_278355984__436161370/columns/responsivegrid0/container_copy_86601_31152918/image.coreimg.svg/1694213027526/icon-students.svg)

College of Doctoral Studies alumni mentor program  
The University of Phoenix offers an alumni mentoring program for doctoral students. Speak to an Enrollment Representative for details. 

![](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_278355984__436161370/columns/responsivegrid0/container_copy_86601_1255006408/image.coreimg.svg/1694212835520/start-again.svg)

College of Doctoral Studies Facebook group  
Network with other University of Phoenix doctoral students and take the journey together

![Reasons to earn a Phoenix doctoral degree](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_278355984__436161370/columns/responsivegrid1/image_copy.coreimg.jpeg/1694215623798/online.jpeg)

![Reasons to earn a Phoenix doctoral degree](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_278355984_/columns/responsivegrid0/image.coreimg.png/1669083446543/certificates-long-sleeve-cee.png)

## Why earn your doctorate degree online with us?

![](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_278355984_/columns/responsivegrid1/container_copy_866014816/image.coreimg.svg/1694213252614/business.svg)

Career-focused doctoral education  
All our professional doctoral degrees provide career-relevant skills that can be applied to leadership roles in your community or organization.

[The value of professional doctoral degrees](/online-doctoral-degrees/phd-vs-practitioner-doctorate.html)
![](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_278355984_/columns/responsivegrid1/container/image.coreimg.svg/1694213171816/enterprising.svg)

The Scholar-Practitioner-Leader model  
Our unique doctoral model provides you with the guidance necessary to become a Scholar-Practitioner-Leader. By participating in classroom dialogue, researching peer-reviewed sources, and integrating application-based knowledge, you can expand your leadership knowledge and translate classroom learning (scholarship) into effective leadership behaviors (practice).

[Learn more about the model](/press-release/university-of-phoenix-college-of-doctoral-studies-utilizes-schol)
![](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_278355984_/columns/responsivegrid1/container_copy_copy_66719493/image.coreimg.svg/1669077106107/conventional.svg)

Transfer credits for doctoral students  
You can apply up to 27 doctoral-level credits you’ve earned from accredited institutions toward your professional doctoral degree.

[Learn more about transfer credits](/tuition-financial-aid/transfer-credits.html)
![](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_278355984_/columns/responsivegrid1/container_copy/image_copy.coreimg.svg/1691007835017/coin-icon.svg)

The Doctoral Scholarship  
Apply for the opportunity to earn up to $3,000 for[new students](https://www.phoenix.edu/tuition-financial-aid/scholarships/doctoral.html)and[alumni](https://www.phoenix.edu/tuition-financial-aid/scholarships/alumni-doctoral.html)pursuing their doctoral degree at University of Phoenix.

![](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_278355984_/columns/responsivegrid1/container_copy_copy/image.coreimg.svg/1669077132232/accreditation.svg)

Accreditation that matters  
We’ve been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission ([hlcommission.org](https://www.hlcommission.org/))  for more than 40 years.

[Check our accreditation](/about/accreditation.html)
[Higher   
Learning Commission Accreditation Status](https://cdn2.yoshki.com/badgeframe?34)

![A C B S P accredited](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/acbsp-accreditation-logo.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=388)

## Meet your college deans

Our college deans focus on developing a career-relevant curriculum. They bring industry experience to the classroom and lead a faculty of academic professionals with one goal in mind—to help you earn the skills you need to pursue your career.

![Hinrich Eylers, Vice Provost](/content/experience-fragments/edu/us/en/degrees/deans/vice-provost/hinrich-eylers/hinrich-eylers-2/_jcr_content/root/container_966970858_/image.coreimg.png/1707252940749/hinrich-eylers-thumbnail-long.png)

### Hinrich Eylers, PhD

Vice Provost of Doctoral Studies and Academic Operations

[Learn more](/about/academic-leadership/vice-provost-hinrich-eylers.html)
![Shawn Boone, Associate Dean](/content/experience-fragments/edu/us/en/degrees/deans/associate-deans/shawn-boone/shawn-boone/_jcr_content/root/container_966970858_/image.coreimg.png/1706133243811/shawn-boone-thumbnail.png)

### Shawn Todd-Boone, EdD

Associate Dean, College of Doctoral Studies

[Learn more](/about/academic-leadership/associate-dean-shawn-boone.html)
![Lilia Santiague, Associate Dean](/content/experience-fragments/edu/us/en/degrees/deans/associate-deans/lilia-santiague/lilia-santiague/_jcr_content/root/container_966970858_/image.coreimg.jpeg/1761167663160/lilia-santiague-card.jpeg)

### Lilia Santiague, PhD

Associate Dean, College of Doctoral Studies

[Learn more](/about/academic-leadership/associate-dean-lilia-santiague.html)
![Cathy Lalley, Associate Dean](https://uop.scene7.com/is/image/phoenixedu/lally-thumb.webp?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=70&fit=constrain,1&wid=311)

### Cathy Lalley, PhD

Associate Dean, College of Doctoral Studies

[Learn more](/about/academic-leadership/associate-dean-cathy-lalley.html)
![Herman Van Niekerk, Associate Dean](/content/experience-fragments/edu/us/en/degrees/deans/associate-deans/herman-van-niekerk/herman-van-niekerk/_jcr_content/root/container_966970858_/image.coreimg.png/1706135563975/herman-van-niekerk-thumbnail.png)

### Herman van Niekerk, PhD

Associate Dean, College of Doctoral Studies

[Learn more](/about/academic-leadership/associate-dean-herman-van-niekerk.html)
## “University of Phoenix built my confidence as a professional, and instilled in me a great sense of perspective on how to contribute to the community.”

**Roxanne M-B.**  
Master of Health Administration, ’07; Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership, ‘15

![](/online-doctoral-degrees/_jcr_content/root/container/container_copy/columns/responsivegrid1/image.coreimg.png/1669083375341/bird-logo.png)

## Frequently asked questions about online doctoral degrees

Expand AllCollapse All
### Why get an online doctorate degree?

A professional doctorate program gives you career-relevant skills that prepare you to impact and help transform fields like business, management, health administration, education and nursing.

### What is the online environment like for doctoral programs at University of Phoenix?

University of Phoenix postgraduate programs are all online.

One of the most convenient aspects of the University of Phoenix online learning model is that you choose the days and times to participate in class each week. You do need to meet the minimum participation requirements by posting substantive contributions to the classroom on three of seven days each week. While there are due dates for assignments, when you do the work for those assignments is up to you.

The College of Doctoral Studies may accept up to 27 doctoral-level credits, depending on the program, from an accredited institution of higher learning.

### What doctoral degrees and elective tracks are available at University of Phoenix?

At University of Phoenix, we have doctoral degree programs in business, education, healthcare and nursing. Within these fields, we have four accredited doctoral programs, which include:

- [Doctor of Business Administration](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-business-degrees/business-administration-doctoral-degree.html)
- [Doctor of Education](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-education-degrees/doctor-of-education.html)
- [Doctor of Health Administration](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-healthcare-degrees/health-administration-doctoral-degree.html)
- [Doctor of Management](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-business-degrees/management-doctoral-degree.html)

The College of Doctoral Studies also offers specific program elective tracks, which place a specific emphasis of study within a larger degree program. Our elective tracks include:

**Doctor of Management elective tracks**:

- Information systems and technology
- Organizational leadership

**Doctor of Education elective tracks**:

- Curriculum and instruction 
- Educational leadership 
- Educational technology 
- Higher education administration

### What's the difference between a doctorate degree and a PhD?

Simply put – with online PhD programs you contribute to an original body of knowledge in preparation for an academic career pursuing that knowledge. [In comparison](https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/practitioner-doctorate-vs-phd-whats-the-difference.html), with our practitioner online doctorate degree, you’ll contribute largely by applying existing knowledge and leadership toward solving real-world problems in your field and your community.

### How will I write my doctorate degree dissertation?

Your original and valued[dissertation research](/online-doctoral-degrees/dissertation-information.html)serves as the foundation for your field of interest. Our dedicated doctoral school puts the student at the center of an ecosystem of experienced faculty. We offer resources geared to help you succeed from an introductory doctoral course sequence through all the steps to completing and disseminating your dissertation.

### Do all doctoral faculty members have doctoral degrees?

Yes, all College of Doctoral Studies faculty members have doctoral degrees. Additionally, most hold positions within the fields they teach. When they are not teaching class, our instructors are leaders in their respective organizations.

### How much does a doctorate degree cost? And is financial aid available?

Program cost can vary depending on program length. Course extensions, research proposals, and research and dissertation can all impact the duration and cost of doctoral studies. Review your selected program for details. 

You can also apply for [the Doctoral Scholarship,](https://www.phoenix.edu/tuition-financial-aid/scholarships.html) which offers up to $3,000 for new students and alumni pursuing their doctoral degree at University of Phoenix.

Military students, alumni and international students receive special pricing. Please check with your enrollment representative for pricing details.

Additionally, there are financial aid resources available to you. Your enrollment representative will be happy to discuss those options with you. [Learn more about your tuition and financial options](https://www.phoenix.edu/tuition-financial-aid.html).

---

### How long is a doctoral degree?

The time required to complete a doctoral degree varies based on the degree program, program requirements and a student's academic plan. Doctoral programs generally involve advanced study in a specific field and may include coursework, research and other degree requirements.

University of Phoenix offers online doctoral degree programs in areas including business, education, healthcare and management. Program requirements and completion timelines vary by degree program, and prospective students can review individual doctoral program pages for details about curriculum, requirements and program structure.

### Does University of Phoenix offer doctoral degrees?

Yes, University of Phoenix offers online doctoral degree programs. Doctoral programs are available in areas including business, education, healthcare and management and are designed for students seeking advanced study in their field.

University of Phoenix doctoral programs include curriculum, research and other degree requirements that vary by program. Prospective students can review individual doctoral program pages for information about admission requirements, program structure, curriculum and degree-specific expectations.

### How long does an online doctoral degree take at University of Phoenix?

The time required to complete an online doctoral degree at University of Phoenix varies by degree program and individual academic plan. Program requirements, course sequencing and doctoral study requirements may affect the time needed to complete a doctoral degree.

University of Phoenix offers online doctoral degree programs in areas including business, education, healthcare and management. Prospective students can review individual doctoral program pages for information about program requirements, curriculum and degree completion expectations.

## Read more about doctoral degrees

- [Differences in MD, PhD,. Professional Doctorate](/articles/online-college/differences-between-md-phd-and-professional-doctorate) — Online Degrees | June 22, 2023 • 8 minutes

- [Alumni Mentor Program Paves the Way for Future Success of Doctoral Students](/blog/alumni-mentor-program.html) — University Life | January 02, 2023 • 7 minutes

- [What is a Doctoral Candidate vs. Doctoral Student](/articles/online-college/what-is-a-doctoral-candidate-vs-doctoral-student) — University Life | April 26, 2023 • 7 minutes

![Smiling enrollment representative](/content/experience-fragments/edu/us/en/site/next-steps/master/_jcr_content/root/container_287625372__1834076582/container/container/container/image.coreimg.png/1722900236398/enrollment-representative.png)

## Start a conversation about your future with an enrollment representative today.

[Call 844-937-8679](tel:8449378679)
Last updated: August 3, 2026