Best PhD Programs in Pennsylvania - Online & Campus
Looking to advance your research skills, earn more money and open the door to fascinating career paths? Then a doctoral degree may be in your future! Learn more about PhD programs in Pennsylvania with this comprehensive PhDs.me guide.
Earning a PhD is one of the highest academic achievements and can open doors to advanced research and career opportunities.
Pennsylvania offers a wide range of programs across fields like nursing, business, education, and psychology, with strong demand for PhD graduates.
This guide will help you explore your options and find the right doctoral program for your goals.
Discover Popular PhD and Doctoral Programs
What are you looking for in a doctoral program in Pennsylvania? Many students prioritize quality, flexibility, and affordability.
The schools below stand out for offering strong academics and student support, helping you succeed during your program and beyond.
Here are three spotlight schools to consider:
University of Pittsburgh
The University of Pittsburgh offers a wide range of doctoral programs in fields like healthcare, education, computer science, psychology, and public health.
While programs are not fully online, its EdD degrees are offered in hybrid formats, combining online learning with in-person sessions. These programs are designed for working professionals, and all EdD students pay in-state tuition rates, regardless of residency.
Tuition varies by program, but many students benefit from flexible formats and strong academic resources.
Villanova
Villanova University offers doctoral programs in philosophy, theology, and nursing, with options tailored to different career paths.
While philosophy and theology programs are campus-based, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) includes online and accelerated tracks, along with scholarship and tuition reduction opportunities.
PhD students typically have up to eight years to complete their degree, providing flexibility for long-term planning.
University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania offers a wide range of PhD programs across multiple disciplines, along with select online doctorates in areas like nursing and clinical social work.
Students have access to strong academic and support resources, including a graduate student center and flexible policies for managing unexpected life events.
Many doctoral students also benefit from funding opportunities, such as assistantships and fellowships, which can help make graduate study more affordable.
Different Types of PhD and Doctoral Programs
No matter how you’re hoping to earn your doctoral degree — full-time, part-time, online, hybrid or something else altogether — there’s an option for you.
Below, discover the most common delivery methods of PhD programs in Pennsylvania. Read more about them, and see which choice is right for you.
Full-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs
Most full-time doctoral programs in Pennsylvania take about four to six years to complete.
Students typically begin with two years of coursework, followed by qualifying exams and dissertation work.
These programs are widely available across disciplines. Examples include the PhD in Health Care Management and Economics at Wharton and the PhD in Higher Education at the University of Pennsylvania.
Part-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs
Part-time doctoral programs in Pennsylvania are designed for students balancing work and other commitments.
These programs usually take six to eight years to complete, offering a slower, more flexible pace.
Examples include the Online EdD in Education and Leadership at Rockhurst University and the Doctor of Education at Drexel University.
Fully Funded PhD/Doctoral Programs
Fully funded doctoral programs are common in Pennsylvania and can cover tuition, health insurance, and living expenses.
In return, students typically teach or assist with research while completing their degrees.
Examples include the PhD in Education and the EdD in Educational Leadership and Management at Drexel University.
No-GRE PhD/Doctoral Programs
Many doctoral programs in Pennsylvania no longer require the GRE, making admissions more accessible.
Instead of test scores, schools may focus on academic performance and relevant experience.
Examples include the Doctor of Education in Special Education at Slippery Rock University and the PhD in Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University.
Accelerated PhD/Doctoral Programs
Most doctoral programs take four to seven years, but accelerated options can shorten that timeline.
These programs move at a faster pace and are often completed in under three years.
One example in Pennsylvania is the Doctor of Physical Therapy at Neumann University.
No Dissertation PhD/Doctoral Programs
Most PhD programs include a dissertation, but some doctoral options offer alternatives.
In these programs, you may complete:
- Capstone projects
- Applied or smaller research assignments
Examples in Pennsylvania include the Philosophy of Engaged Learning at Duquesne University and the DNP in Nurse Anesthesia at the University of Scranton.
Best Fields to Earn Your PhD or Doctoral Degree
Accounting
A PhD in accounting is a strong choice for professionals interested in theory, research, and advanced financial analysis.
Graduates often pursue careers in academia, research, or high-level finance roles.
These programs attract students from backgrounds like economics, statistics, and mathematics, especially those interested in applying those skills to accounting research.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Nursing
Earning a doctoral degree in nursing can help you move into leadership, academic, or administrative roles.
These programs prepare you for advanced positions in areas like nurse practitioner care, neonatal nursing, and psychiatric mental health.
Graduates are equipped to improve patient care and lead within healthcare systems.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Health Science
A doctoral degree in health science is ideal if you want to become an expert in health and wellness research.
These programs attract professionals from fields like nursing, therapy, biology, and chemistry.
You’ll gain the skills to advance human health through research, analysis, and innovation.
Quality Example of On-Campus Program
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Psychology
Earn a PhD in psychology, and you’ll grow beyond general knowledge to obtain expertise in your chosen specialization.
A PhD will make you competitive as a clinical psychologist if that’s your calling. But if your career goals include research or academia, you’ll need a PhD to get there.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
- West Chester University Doctor of Psychology, Clinical Psychology (PsyD)
- University of Pennsylvania Psychology PhD
Education
A doctoral degree in education is a good fit for professionals looking to deepen their understanding of theory and leadership.
Programs often offer specializations in areas like curriculum, technology, policy, counseling, and leadership.
Graduates can pursue roles in academic leadership, research, or teaching at the college level.
Quality Example of On-Campus Program
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Expert Insight
In many Pennsylvania doctoral programs, you won’t just take classes, you’ll work closely with faculty on research and sometimes teaching. Look for programs where students are actively involved in projects or publications, since that hands-on experience can have a big impact on your career after graduation.
Getting Your PhD or Professional Doctorate Online
If you’re a working professional, online and hybrid doctoral programs in Pennsylvania can offer the flexibility you need.
Many programs include:
- Asynchronous learning, so you can study on your schedule
- A mix of online coursework and occasional in-person requirements
Examples include:
- The Doctor of Social Work at the University of Pennsylvania, which blends online and in-person learning
- Fully online options through Pennsylvania State World Campus, such as the Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Engineering
Explore the top schools below to find a program that fits your schedule and goals.
Top-Rated Online Doctoral Programs in Pennsylvania
A collaboration between California University of Pennsylvania, Clarion University of Pennsylvania, and Edinboro University, Pennsylvania Western University provides students with a wide array of online doctoral programs to choose from. There's the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, which has a hybrid format of online coursework and in-person clinical internships. The Doctorate in Health and Science and Exercise Leadership is a fully online program and ideal for those looking to learn advanced skills and knowledge relating to improving health through disease prevention and wellness. The Doctor of Education in Education Administration and Leadership includes a capstone project and provides students with a state-approved Superintendent Letter of Eligibility. Finally, there's the Doctor of Criminal Justice. The curriculum begins with a five-day residency (that can be completed in person or online), followed by about 24 months of online coursework.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Credits: 27
- Length: 6 semesters
- Cost: $516/credit (resident) and $774/credit (nonresident)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: CCNE
Doctorate in Health Science and Exercise Leadership
- Credits: 48
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $516/credit (resident) and $774/credit (nonresident)
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Doctor of Criminal Justice
- Credits: 42
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $516/credit (resident) and $774/credit (nonresident)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: MSCHE
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio19
Cabrini University offers two online doctoral programs. For educators and school administrators, there's the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. This is a hybrid program in which students progress through the program as a cohort. Courses last eight weeks and consist of online synchronous courses and on-campus courses. Most students complete the program in about three years but can take longer if necessary. Students choose from four concentrations: District Leadership, PreK-12 School Leadership, Higher Education Leadership, and Curriculum and Instruction leadership. The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Organization Development and Change is a degree for established professionals. By completing online synchronous and blended courses, students develop the skills to lead and learn advanced concepts and theories about organizational leadership, with a goal of developing and implementing their own leadership principles.
Program Highlights:
EdD in Educational Leadership
- Credits: 54
- Length: 3-4 years
- Cost: $830/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: MSCHE
PhD in Organization Development and Change
- Credits: 70
- Length: About 3 years
- Cost: $26,010/year
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: MSCHE
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio14
The online Executive Doctor of Education (EdD) in Organizational Leadership and Innovation is one of the newer programs at Saint Francis University. It follows a hybrid model of online classes and on-campus residencies to facilitate group learning and networking. Incoming classes are arranged into cohorts, and each residency occurs over a weekend (one per semester). To save time, coursework and dissertation preparation occur simultaneously throughout the program. After completing the curriculum, students will be better prepared to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their organization by applying sustainable, ethical, and innovative strategies. Even though this is an EdD, the program is helpful to almost any professional, whether they work in education, business, nonprofits, governments, or healthcare.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Innovation
- Credits: 51
- Length: 32 months
- Cost: $6,375/semester
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: MSCHE
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio14
Slippery Rock University has an online Doctor of Education (EdD) degree that provides two concentration pathways. The first is Special Education and offers coursework to prepare future school administrators overseeing special education teachers. This program is also suited for education professionals seeking to shift into academia who wish to train future special education instructors. Online classes are offered synchronously and asynchronously during the fall and spring, with in-person classes required during the summer. The second concentration pathway is in educational leadership. Among other things, the curriculum examines recent changes to education administration and school regulations to help train future school leaders. Coursework can be completed year-round with 100% online courses. However, students may opt to complete the required Dissertation Seminar in person or online.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Education
- Credits: 60
- Length: About 3 years
- Cost: $516/credit (resident) and $568/credit (nonresident)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: MSCHE
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio19
Thomas Jefferson University is one of the premier institutions of higher learning in Philadelphia, so it's no surprise that the school has several online doctoral-level programs to choose from. These include a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), which is open to BSN- and MSN-prepared students and consists of both online and in-person curriculum requirements. Students more interested in healthcare policy can enroll in the Doctor of Health Science program, which can be completed fully online. Currently practicing midwives who want to take a more managerial role in their practice can apply to the first-ever professional Doctor of Midwifery program, with mostly online coursework. Lastly, there's the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Population Health Science. This hybrid program consists of asynchronous online and on-campus coursework and provides five areas of specialization.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Health Science
- Credits: 51
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $1,010/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Doctor of Midwifery
- Credits: 35
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $1,040/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: MSCHE
PhD in Population Health Science
- Credits: 62
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $1,234/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: MSCHE
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio10
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio12
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio10
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio11
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio19
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio17
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio11
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio14
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio11
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio11
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio10
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio10
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio15
Unlock Financial Aid for Your PhD Program
If you’re worried about cost, there are several financial aid options for doctoral students in Pennsylvania.
Common sources include:
- Scholarships and fellowships
- Grants and work-study programs
- Teaching and research assistantships
For example, Penn State offers graduate fellowships, recognition awards, and assistantship tuition benefits, along with access to external funding. The University of Pennsylvania provides support through fellowships, assistantships, and apprenticeships.
Other schools, like Temple University, offer Federal Work-Study, and many programs list additional funding opportunities within specific departments.
You can also explore federal aid options at StudentAid.gov to help cover remaining costs.
Expert Insight
Some doctoral programs have competitive funding tied to progress milestones, not just admission. That means your funding can depend on passing exams, meeting research benchmarks, or staying on schedule, so it’s important to understand those expectations. I had to apply for funding each academic year.
PhD Degree Holders: Exploring Earnings Potential
One of the key benefits of earning a doctoral degree is the potential for higher pay.
On average, professionals with a doctorate earn about $300+ more per week than those with a master’s degree.
The table below highlights high-earning careers in Pennsylvania where a doctoral degree can make a difference.
| Job Title | Related Doctoral Degree(s) | Median Earnings (2023) | 90th Percentile Earnings (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Research Scientist | PhD in Computer Science | $145,080 | $233,110 |
| Economist | PhD in Economics | $115,730 | $216,900 |
| Historian | PhD in History | $72,890 | $124,720 |
| Human Resources Executive | Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) | $136,350 | $239,200+ |
| Nurse Practitioner | Doctor of Nursing Practice | $126,260 | $168,030 |
| Physical Therapist | Doctor of Physical Therapy | $99,710 | $130,870 |
| Psychologist | Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) / PhD in Psychology | $92,740 | $151,880 |
| School Principal (Postsecondary) | Doctor of Education (EdD) | $102,610 | $209,870 |
| Speech Language Pathologist | PhD in Applied Language and Speech Science | $89,290 | $129,930 |
| Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist | PhD in Biology | $70,600 | $110,590 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023