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Online PhD & Doctorate Programs

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Online PhD & Doctorate Programs

Are you a lifelong learner? Are you driven to excel in your chosen field? Earning an online PhD or doctorate degree is a pursuit for intellectually curious minds that want to go farther in their careers, and become thought leaders in highly specialized industries. Whatever the reason, earning an online doctorate or PhD degree from National University is an investment in your future.

Building on our 50-year history of outstanding academics, dedicated faculty, and a global network of 230,000 alumni and growing, National University makes PhD or doctorate degrees attainable and achievable for adult learners, busy parents, and hard-working professionals who need a competitive edge.

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Featured PhD & Doctorate Programs

1. Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD)

National University’s Doctor of Clinical Psychology program PsyD provides the highest level of training in the field of clinical psychology, equipping you with the necessary tools to serve communities in vital roles such as clinician, program administrator, evaluator, consultant, educator, and scholar. This program prepares you to make an impact in the lives of those in need.

2. Ed.D. in Organizational Innovation

The Ed.D. in Organizational Innovation program prepares adaptable professionals who are able to innovate, generate creative solutions, and facilitate positive change and organizational transformation in their professional capacity. Learners are provided expanded viewpoints relative to problem identification and applied resolution strategies in education/organizational ecosystems that can be volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous.

Find the Doctorate Program that’s Right for You

PhD vs. Doctorate, What’s the Difference?

The difference between a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) and a doctorate degree is found in the scope of the program. A PhD is a specifically defined program, whereas a doctorate applies to any professional or academic degree.

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Why Get a PhD Degree?

With an online PhD or doctorate degree, you are statistically more likely to find better pay opportunities, and more likely to secure employment overall. Additionally, people with PhD or doctorate degrees are more likely to become specialists or thought leaders in their chosen fields.

Is a Doctorate Worth It?

Earning your doctoral degree from NU will give you the tools and knowledge you need to make a meaningful difference in your field. The depth of understanding you’ll gain in a doctorate program will help prepare you for a leadership role in your career, and the skills you’ll learn will help you lead more effectively.

University Accreditation

Accreditation ensures universities have been properly evaluated and validated by education authorities. National University is proud to be regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

NU’s PsyD program is currently unaccredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) for new students but maintains its WSCUC accreditation. Given the program’s long history of accreditation under JFKU, full accreditation may be awarded in 2023. The program is working diligently to establish full accreditation under the JFK-SOP at NU in 2023. However, National University cannot guarantee that APA accreditation will be granted. There is a possibility that the program may not be accredited before you finish, and if you transfer to another institution before National University obtains this accreditation, your credits may not be transferable.

Why Choose National University

Through our holistic, whole-human approach to education, we offer the academic, emotional, career, financial, and family support needed to reach your educational and professional goals.

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“It is a growing experience, and you will learn so much about yourself and what you are capable of. There are groups, resources, and tools to make sure you are successful.”
⎯ Dr. Shantana R., Class of 2019

Doctorate FAQs

Certain programs are available online, depending on the area of expertise. As PhD and doctorate degrees are more specialized than other degrees, there are often internships or in-person components. At National University, PhD and doctorate programs are mostly completed online.

According to the US Census Bureau, less than 3% of the United States population holds a doctoral degree. Whether you want to expand your knowledge in the field of business, education, psychology, or marriage and family therapy, earning your online PhD or doctorate can help set you apart from the competition.

Program length will vary depending on which PhD or doctorate you select. Find the program that’s right for you here.

National University is a private, nonprofit institution that is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Accreditation ensures our university meets the highest standards of quality in education. Visit our accreditations page to learn more.