Best PhD Programs in North Carolina - Online & Campus
Boost your earning potential, move into higher-level positions, and immerse yourself in a field you love. Find online and on-campus PhD programs in North Carolina that will help you make these goals a reality in this PhDs.me guide.
Whether you have recently completed your bachelor’s degree and are contemplating your future education and career prospects or you are an experienced professional eager to elevate your education to secure higher-level positions and boost your salary, North Carolina offers various PhD and professional doctorate programs to help you achieve your goals. Regardless of whether you’re seeking a conventional or online doctoral program in North Carolina, this guide provides an overview of the programs offered by schools across the state and an inside look at today’s top-ranked programs.
Exploring PhD and Doctoral Programs
As students seek out doctoral programs in North Carolina, their needs and preferences will vary. However, some common factors that students look for include affordability, study flexibility, and quality curriculum. The following schools with PhD and doctoral programs in North Carolina are highly rated in all three areas and provide a range of programs to choose from. Find out more about each option below.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Those in the healthcare field who want to enroll in online PhD programs in North Carolina will find options at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Programs focusing on nursing, public health, and physical therapy allow busy professionals to conveniently take classes online—and in some programs, courses are offered in a self-paced, asynchronous format. However the school also provides students with the hands-on training they need in advanced healthcare practices through experiences on campus and at healthcare facilities. Depending on the program, students may be required to also take their exams in person either on campus or at a proctoring center approved by the school.
North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University offers 60 PhD programs, including a mix of some that are entirely online and some with both online and in-person components. Those who enroll in hybrid programs take a portion of their coursework online and come to campus on evenings or weekends for other required activities—which still allows students to easily fit classes into their busy lives. No matter what the course format, these doctoral programs provide preparation for career advancement and for students to successfully complete their dissertations.
East Carolina University
East Carolina University (ECU) offers public health doctoral degrees online for students who want to concentrate on either environmental and occupational health or health policy, administration, and leadership. To be admitted, applicants are expected to have a master’s in public health and two years of work experience in the field. To help students defray the cost of their education, the ECU Department of Public Health offers the J. Craig Souza Scholarship, which is designed for those who aspire to become long-term care administrators. The award is $4,000; to be eligible, students must demonstrate financial need and submit a statement explaining why they want to enter this field. The school also offers an EdD in Educational Leadership, an EdS in Educational Administration and Supervision, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP), and a PhD in Nursing.
Different Types of PhDs and Professional Doctorates
Whether you prefer full-time or part-time attendance, are seeking an accelerated degree to graduate more quickly, or are looking for a school that does not require GRE scores or a dissertation to graduate, the following are excellent options to help you find the program that best suits your lifestyle and goals.
Full-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs
Whether you pursue a degree online or in person, you may be interested in enrolling in PhD programs in North Carolina on a full-time basis to complete your degree faster. For example, North Carolina State University offers a PhD in Communication, Rhetoric, and Digital Media for those interested in analyzing the impact of new information technology. The University of North Carolina at Charlotte has a Doctorate in Business Administration, which is a three-year program for professionals who want to pursue careers as high-level managers in corporations, independent consultants, and professors at colleges and universities.
Part-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs
If your lifestyle doesn’t allow you to attend graduate school full-time, you can also reach your goals through part-time PhD programs in North Carolina. Those who want to pursue leadership roles in the information and library science field can earn a part-time PhD in Information and Library Sciences from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which prepares students to conduct academic research and communicate findings to effect policy changes. Similarly, North Carolina State University has a part-time option for its PhD in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development, which allows students to conveniently complete their studies during afternoons, evenings, weekends, and summer sessions.
Fully-Funded PhD/Doctoral Programs
It’s no secret that graduate school is expensive, but cost doesn’t have to keep you from reaching your goals. Some doctoral programs in North Carolina are fully funded so students don’t have to worry about how they will pay for their education. For example, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has an English and Comparative Literature PhD program that fully funds all its students through research and teaching fellowships. North Carolina State University has a fully funded PhD in Geospatial Analytics in which students can earn $25,000 plus tuition support and benefits through graduate assistantships.
No-GRE PhD/Doctoral Programs
Although it used to be the norm for most graduate schools to require that prospective PhD students earn a high score on the GRE, it’s becoming increasingly common for PhD programs to waive the GRE requirement. For example, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill stopped requiring applicants for the Carolina Planning PhD program to submit GRE scores. For those interested in admission to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s PhD in Biology program, the GRE is no longer required and students are judged based on their grades—particularly in undergraduate biology classes—and a personal statement.
Accelerated PhD/Doctoral Programs
If you’re able to dedicate your time to intensive study and you want to complete your degree quickly, an accelerated PhD program may be the answer for you. North Carolina State University’s Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department has a Direct to PhD program for undergraduates who want to skip earning a master’s degree. The Doctor of Health Sciences program at Campbell University allows students to take accelerated eight-week courses so they can save time and money on their degree.
No Dissertation PhD/Doctoral Programs
If you’re interested in PhD programs in North Carolina but would prefer to earn your degree without completing a dissertation, there are schools that will accommodate you. The EdD in Organizational Leadership program at Gardner-Webb University and the Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill require students to participate in practical experiences that demonstrate their knowledge and skills rather than writing a dissertation.
Popular PhD and Doctoral Degrees
Given the vast number of in-person and online PhD programs available in North Carolina, selecting the best one for you can be a daunting task. Begin by exploring these popular options:
Clinical Psychology
People in the psychology field who want to work at the highest level of the profession can earn a PhD in Psychology or PsyD degree. By completing this degree, professionals are able to earn a license so they can prescribe medicine, provide treatment, conduct high-level research, and teach at the college level.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Physical Therapy
Although professionals used to be able to practice physical therapy with a master’s degree, a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) is now required for this profession. DPT students learn the theory and practice of evidence-based physical therapy, as well as develop the advanced critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills needed to work with patients and run a practice. This is a good degree for people who are already working as physical therapy assistants and aides and want to advance in their careers.
Quality Examples of Programs
Accounting
Since the curriculum is research heavy, accountants who earn this degree are generally interested in conducting research or working as college or university professors. In addition, a PhD in accounting is for people who want to demonstrate their expertise and open consulting or financial management businesses.
Quality Examples of Programs
Applied Mathematics
Those who want to earn a PhD in applied mathematics get the preparation they need to solve numerous types of advanced problems in different work environments. After completing this program, students may go on to work for government agencies, manufacturers, insurance firms, medical companies, and communications service providers. Students who want to become college professors may also earn this PhD.
Quality Examples of Programs
Dentistry
The Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) are rigorous programs that provide a deep understanding of biology, anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry. In addition, students get extensive hands-on laboratory and clinical training so they can apply the skills they learned in class to real patient experiences.
Quality Examples of Programs
What It’s Like to Earn Your PhD or Doctorate Online
If you’re concerned about the quality of the education you might receive from online PhD programs in North Carolina, rest assured that schools provide the same quality education you receive in traditional programs. For example, students who enroll in the Doctor of Design program at North Carolina State University have the opportunity to reinforce their online studies by working closely with a mentor in the department, as well as committee members who help support their education.
Online PhD programs in North Carolina are a great option for busy professionals who want to work toward their career and education goals while they remain employed full-time. Oftentimes, these programs—like North Carolina State University’s PhD in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development—provide the option for students to take coursework during evenings and weekends to best fit their schedule.
Check out our 2024 college rankings below for a comprehensive list of top-rated schools in NC offering online doctoral programs.
Best Online Doctoral Programs in North Carolina
Carolina University offers multiple doctoral programs that span a wide range of areas of study. For those interested in healthcare or religion, there are the Doctor of Ministry and Doctor of Philosophy in Healthcare Administration. For more general doctoral programs, students can choose from Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Leadership, Organizational Management, Innovation, and Educational Administration. All of these programs are offered mostly online; the Doctor of Ministry is 100% online. Additionally, applying to any of these programs doesn't require applicants to take the GRE or GMAT. To accommodate the unique professional needs of every student, each doctoral program offers various concentrations or elective courses, making a customized curriculum possible.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Ministry
- Credits: 36
- Length: About 3 years
- Cost: $410/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: TRACS
PhD in Healthcare Administration
- Credits: 73
- Length: About 4 years
- Cost: $610/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: TRACS
PhD in Innovation
- Credits: 73
- Length: About 3 years
- Cost: $610/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: TRACS
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio10
The Doctor of Nursing (DNP) Program from University of North Carolina Wilmington is ideal for anyone looking to earn a terminal nursing degree with as much flexibility as possible. Students choose from the following concentrations: family nurse practitioner, nurse executive leadership, post APRN, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Students can enroll part-time or full-time, with the exact program length dependent on whether the student has a bachelor's degree or master's degree in nursing. Lastly, most of the coursework can be completed online; some concentrations allow students to earn their DNP without any in-person requirements.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Nursing Practice -- Nurse Executive Leadership
- Credits: 36
- Length: 5-8 semesters
- Cost: $384.19/credit (resident) and $1,227.30 (nonresident)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice -- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Credits: 70
- Length: 8-14 semesters
- Cost: $384.19/credit (resident) and $1,227.30 (nonresident)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: CCNE
Doctor of Nursing Practice -- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Credits: 70
- Length: 8-14 semesters
- Cost: $384.19/credit (resident) and $1,227.30 (nonresident)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: CCNE
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio16
The Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies is a unique online degree offered by North Carolina A&T State University. It's designed for individuals who want to carry out social science research in the leadership arena. Students in this program come from a variety of professions and fields, from law to education to corporate management. The program consists of 60 credits, with 12 of these devoted to the dissertation process. Of the 48 credits allotted to coursework, 18 will be in one of the following three specializations: health services leadership, educational leadership, or organizational leadership.
Program Highlights:
PhD in Leadership Studies
- Credits: 60
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $240/credit (resident) and $867 (nonresident)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio19
Wake Forest University offers two doctoral programs online: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Ministry (DMin). Both programs offer most coursework online but require students attend occasional in-person learning sessions. Both of these programs are also part-time, making it easier for students to work while taking courses. One special feature of the DNP program is that the curriculum is interdisciplinary, with students taking three credits from the Wake Forest School of Law. As for the DMin program, students enjoy three one-week on-campus residencies throughout the program that provide excellent opportunities to directly interact with professors and classmates.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $25,146 first year, $19,558 second year
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Doctor of Ministry
- Credits: 30
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $21,220/year
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio10
Western Carolina University offers several online doctoral programs across two primary fields of study. On the education side, there's the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. This cohort program includes both online and on-campus coursework (in-person classes meet one weekend a month). Classes are offered at a part-time pace, allowing students to continue working in their respective leadership positions. On the healthcare side, Western Carolina has several Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) academic pathways, including a general DNP track and Family Nurse Practitioner track. Both of these programs offer the bulk of the coursework online, although each has clinical residencies that require face-to-face experiential learning.
Program Highlights:
EdD in Educational Leadership
- Credits: 52
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $277.92/credit (resident) and $873.42 (nonresident)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: NCATE
Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Credits: 34
- Length: 4-7 semesters
- Cost: $544.59/credit (resident) and $1,140.09 (nonresident)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: CCNE
DNP -- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Credits: 83
- Length: About 3 years
- Cost: $544.59/credit (resident) and $1,140.09 (nonresident)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: CCNE
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio15
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio20
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio17
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio18
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio17
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio11
Where to Get Funding for Your Doctoral Degree
Tuition costs shouldn’t put a wall between you and what you want to accomplish. Whether you’re interested in online PhD programs in North Carolina or degrees offered through traditional programs, there are financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and grants, fellowships, graduate assistantships, and work-study programs. For example, students who enroll in PhD programs at Duke University receive guaranteed funding through scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships, while students at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University can qualify for assistantships, scholarships, and fellowships.
In addition to support from your school, you may be eligible for scholarships and grants from government agencies, private companies, and organizations that specialize in specific professions. As you research doctoral programs in North Carolina, be sure to explore all of your funding options. What you discover could save you thousands of dollars.
How Much You Could Earn with a PhD or Doctorate
One primary reason to pursue a PhD program in North Carolina is to qualify for higher-paying jobs. According to ZipRecruiter, in North Carolina, on average, those with a doctoral degree earn $103,361 per year—a huge jump from the average salary of $61,398 for those with a master’s degree in North Carolina. To get an idea of what people in specific doctorate-level professions in North Carolina make, review the table below.
| Job Title | Related Doctoral Degree(s) | Median Earnings | 90th Percentile Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| School Psychologist | PhD in Psychology | $84,940 | $131,470 |
| Clinical Psychologist | Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) | $96,100 | $168,870 |
| College Education Administrator | Doctor of Education (EdD) | $102,610 | $209,870 |
| Nurse Practitioner | Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) | $126,260 | $168,030 |
| Physical Therapist | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | $99,710 | $130,870 |
| Operations Manager | Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) | $101,280 | $232,110 |
| Anthropologist | PhD in Anthropology | $63,800 | $102,150 |
| Biomedical Engineer | PhD in Biomedical Science | $100,730 | $154,350 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023