doctoral and phd programs
Take the Final Step in your Education
Doctoral/ PhD ProgramsIf you're ready to put the finishing touches on your education and truly become an expert in your field, you're ready to get a doctoral degree. In order to consider doctorate programs, students must hold a bachelors degree and, most importantly, be able to prepare and defend a thesis-based dissertation. The doctorate degree is the highest level of academic achievement. The literal translation of doctorate is "to teach" and it is common for doctors, research scientists, university professors, lawyers and mental health professionals to hold a doctorate degree. At least three years of study is required to earn a doctorate degree, though doctorate programs vary in length and can be as long as ten years.
Though many doctoral applicants have a masters degree in their chosen field, it is not required. However, a new doctoral student is expected to have a level of proficiency in their subject matter equal to the level usually attained by masters program graduates. If this education is not gained by classroom coursework, it can be achieved with hands-on experience in a chosen field. A good example of this situation may be a research scientist who has spent years in a lab or has even published a book within their chosen field. If they are confident that their level of experience and parallel education is equal to what they would have gotten from a masters program, they can apply directly to a doctorate program. Other popular doctoral degrees include: Doctor of Education, Doctor of Business Administration, and an increasingly popular doctorate degree, Doctor of Computer Science.
Students or professionals considering a doctorate degree in any field now have some great and convenient options. Many doctorate programs are available through online schools and, of course, many campus schools offer doctorate degrees.
Featured Schools

BACHELOR'S, PH.D. and MASTER'S DEGREES ONLINE
- Health Sciences
- Counseling
- Human Services
- Management
- Psychology
- Education
- Public Health
- Nursing
- Public Administration
- Technology
- Engineering
Designed to help you achieve professional advancement and personal enrichment, Walden University's degrees are rigorous and taught by a highly qualified faculty. You'll also find that our online degree formats enhance your learning experience by allowing you to work with peers from across the nation and around the world.
Benefits of our programs include:
- Flexible and progressive online learning format
- A collaborative learning environment
- Immediate, real-world application
- A variety of specialization options
To learn more about Walden University's online degree programs, complete the request information form. A Walden enrollment advisor will contact you with information about our doctoral, master's, and bachelor's degree programs.
Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of The North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org; 312-263-0456.
Walden University's M.S. program in Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), a national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. CCNE ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate and graduate education programs in preparing effective nurses. For students, accreditation signifies program innovation and continuous self-assessment. Graduates recognize that, as they seek new positions or entry into doctoral programs, accreditation is valued and may be required.
Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association
Walden University's Accreditation 312-263-0456

What you need for where you are going.
Saint Leo University is a leading provider of higher education to working adults and is a major global provider of education to the military. With over 5,000 matriculated students, The Center for Online Learning at Saint Leo University is designed to meet the growing needs of adult students and offers the best attributes of traditional classroom education in conjunction with today’s most innovative computer technology.
Through the Center for Online Learning, the University provides degree programs regardless of location and reaches students in over 33 countries. Celebrating more than 25 years of continuing education, today Saint Leo University is the sixth largest provider of higher education to the military.
With Saint Leo University's Center for Online Learning, classroom attendance is never required. Set your own weekly study schedule and "attend class" anytime -- anywhere you have access to a PC. Work and family responsibilities, travel, shift changes or commuting problems never will interfere with your studies.
Saint Leo University is accredited by the Commission of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097) to award Associate's and Bachelor's degrees. The International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE) also accredits Saint Leo University.
Saint Leo University is a leading provider of higher education to working adults and is a major global provider of education to the military. With over 5,000 matriculated students, The Center for Online Learning at Saint Leo University is designed to meet the growing needs of adult students and offers the best attributes of traditional classroom education in conjunction with today’s most innovative computer technology.
Through the Center for Online Learning, the University provides degree programs regardless of location and reaches students in over 33 countries. Celebrating more than 25 years of continuing education, today Saint Leo University is the sixth largest provider of higher education to the military.
With Saint Leo University's Center for Online Learning, classroom attendance is never required. Set your own weekly study schedule and "attend class" anytime -- anywhere you have access to a PC. Work and family responsibilities, travel, shift changes or commuting problems never will interfere with your studies.
Saint Leo University is accredited by the Commission of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097) to award Associate's and Bachelor's degrees. The International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE) also accredits Saint Leo University.
