When most people think of Tennessee, the Smoky Mountains, Nashville, and country music probably come to mind. But the state is home to several high-quality on-campus and online PhD programs in Tennessee. In fact, the University of Tennessee alone has more than seven fully online doctoral programs.
If you’re looking to elevate your career, leadership, and salary opportunities by earning your PhD, this guide covers everything you need to know before you start the application process. Read on to learn about the different types of doctoral degrees in Tennessee, the benefits of completing an online program, and how a PhD can create more professional opportunities in the future.
Top-Rated PhD and Doctoral Programs in Tennessee for 2023
There’s no such thing as the best PhD program for everyone in Tennessee, but you can find the best program for you. There’s a wide variety of high-quality, affordable programs across the state. If you’re looking for increased flexibility, online PhD programs in Tennessee can work around your life and career while you pursue a high-quality education. To start your search, here are three of the best universities in Tennessee for online doctoral programs.
University of Memphis
While the University of Memphis offers several online doctorate degrees, they only have one fully online PhD program: the Doctorate of Nursing Practice. This degree prepares licensed RNs to take on more responsibility at work and certifies them to work as nurse practitioners. The curriculum focuses on health equity, with a specific emphasis on rural healthcare and being a nurse practitioner in underserved communities. While the degree is fully online, students may be required to complete some in-person hours, though these can be completed at a hospital near students, not near or on campus. Students in this program don’t have to complete a dissertation, making this program more hands-on and less research intensive than other online PhD programs in Tennessee.
Union University
Along with a couple of high-quality online master’s and undergraduate degrees, Union University offers one doctorate online: a doctorate in education. Unlike other education PhD programs, the doctoral degree at Union University is open to students who are already licensed teachers or want to enter the field for the first time. The curriculum is a healthy mix of general overview courses and more in-depth seminars. However, priority admission is still given to those with their license and experience in education. Students work with a faculty on a research project, though no official dissertation is required for graduation. The program’s main focus is creating effective teachers prepared for leadership roles in their school district.
Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt University offers a nationally recognized online PhD in education. Students in the program focus on educational reform at the K-12 level. While they take some regular courses, they spend most of their time working one-on-one with a research mentor. The dissertation, a large part of the degree, is done online. Students meet with mentors via Zoom and perform other dissertation work asynchronously. Successful applicants should already have their teaching license in the state, educational experience, and an undergraduate degree in the field. Because the program offers course flexibility and a part-time option, it’s a great choice for teachers looking to advance their careers while working full-time. Vanderbilt doesn’t offer any other fully online PhD programs at this time, though some programs might be hybrid for students who arrange to complete their dissertations online.
Types of PhD and Doctoral Programs Available in Tennessee
Not all online PhD programs in Tennessee are created equal or for the same type of students. The six main types of PhDs are tailored toward different professional goals and learning styles. By learning a bit about each type, you can decide which doctorate program is right for you.
Full-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in Tennessee
Full-time online PhD programs in Tennessee are ideal for students who want to pursue academia as their main gig. Often, these programs are fully funded, or students independently fund their studies because it’s difficult to complete a full-time doctoral degree and work full-time. These programs can also be more research-intensive, such as the full-time PhD in biology at the University of Tennessee. Other programs offer the chance to dive into research, become a teaching assistant, and attend doctoral-level classes, such as the PhD in English at Vanderbilt University.
Part-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in Tennessee
A part-time PhD program allows students to balance their studies with a full-time job or other responsibilities. Since students complete this PhD on a part-time basis, it can take longer to complete than a full-time degree. These online PhD programs in Tennessee are easier to finish while working full time and offer increased scheduling flexibility, as students can adjust their course load each semester. Popular part-time online PhD programs in Tennessee include the PhD in business analytics at the University of Tennessee and the doctorate of education at Vanderbilt University.
Fully Funded PhD/Doctoral Programs in Tennessee
Getting a PhD can come with a high price tag, but it doesn’t have to. Many universities in Tennessee have fully funded programs where students work as research or teaching assistant in exchange for their waived tuition and a living stipend. The PhD in English at Vanderbilt University and PhD in business analytics at the University of Tennessee are two examples of fully funded programs in the state. It’s important to note that these programs are usually not offered online.
No-GRE PhD/Doctoral Programs in Tennessee
Are you looking to get your PhD but hate taking tests? Some doctoral programs don’t require students to take the GRE, the graduate school general entrance exam, to apply. No-GRE graduate programs are great for students with test-taking anxiety or limited time when they are applying to doctoral programs. Popular programs in Tennessee include the doctorate of computational engineering at the Chattanooga branch of the University of Tennessee and the doctorate in engineering at Tennessee Tech University.
Accelerated PhD/Doctoral Programs in Tennessee
Getting a PhD can take up to five years, but that’s not always the case. If you’re looking to get your doctorate in less than three years, consider accelerated online PhD programs in Tennessee. Some programs can even be completed in one year. While one-year degrees are not as common in Tennessee, the accelerated track for the doctorate of education at Union University and the accelerated track for the doctorate of social work at the University of Tennessee are two accelerated programs that can be completed in under three years.
No Dissertation PhD/Doctoral Programs in Tennessee
Usually, PhD students must complete an intensive research project called a dissertation. Depending on your career goals or professional interests, a dissertation might not be your path. For example, someone getting a doctorate in business administration who wants to become a CEO may not benefit from a dissertation as much as a psychology doctoral student who wants to become a professor. When the former is the case, consider a no dissertation PhD, such as the doctorate of education at Union University and the doctorate of nursing practice at the University of Memphis.
Popular Fields to Earn Your PhD and Doctoral Degree in Tennessee
Nursing Practice
RNs looking to take their career to the next level may want to consider getting their Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). A DNP is a robust nursing degree that enables you to perform many of the same tasks as a medical doctor. To apply, students should be experienced registered nurses with a deep knowledge of the nursing field. Since Tennessee is facing a nursing shortage, this degree offers many opportunities to graduates.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Education
Anyone looking to become an education professor or dive into a leadership role in a school district should consider this doctoral degree program. To apply to education leadership online PhD programs in Tennessee, students should already have their teaching license and an undergraduate degree in the field, as well as significant classroom experience. If students are looking to get their PhD online, a doctorate in education is one of the most commonly offered degrees in a virtual format in Tennessee.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Psychology
A doctorate in psychology can lead to many career paths, from working as a licensed psychologist to conducting academic research. Students interested in this PhD should already have their undergraduate and master’s degree in the field. They should also be ready to participate in experiential learning settings, such as the behavioral wellness research clinic at East Tennessee State University.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Example of Hybrid/Online Program
English
Do you love words, reading, and analyzing the meaning behind great authors’ works? If you’re interested in teaching college students, want to write and edit literature, or are just looking to deepen your understanding of literature and the English language, a doctorate in English might be the next professional step. Before applying, students should have their undergraduate and/or master’s degree in the field.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Example of Hybrid/Online Program
- Middle Tennessee State University (hybrid)
Doctorate of Business Administration
To become a business titan, you need the right education for many C-suite executives, including a doctorate in business administration. With this degree, students learn to become leaders in the business world. Applicants should already have significant business experience before applying.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Example of Hybrid/Online Program
- University of Tennessee, Chattanooga (hybrid)
Pursuing a Professional Doctorate or PhD Online in Tennessee
In Tennessee, it is more common to earn your PhD in person, though there are some high-quality online and hybrid options. For example, the University of Tennessee offers seven fully online doctorate programs and even more hybrid degrees. In an online program, students complete all program requirements online. This means they not only take online classes but also complete their dissertation virtually and teach any undergraduate courses they’re required to teach online. The doctorate of nursing program at the University of Memphis is a good example of a high-quality, fully online program.
In hybrid PhD programs in Tennessee, some elements are online while others are in person. This type of program is more common in Tennessee, especially if students are completing research or teaching assistantships to help pay for their degrees. For example, the PhD in environmental science at Tennessee Tech is hybrid, with classes offered in person and the dissertation online. Sometimes, hybrid programs can also allow students to build deeper face-to-face connections with faculty. However, online students can build these relationships, too, if they are intentional about getting to know their department via Zoom and other virtual channels.
Check out our rankings list below to get an inside look at this year’s best Tennessee colleges offering online doctoral programs. We ranked schools based on criteria students care about most, including low tuition, solid academics, strong student support services, and small class sizes.
Best Online Doctoral Programs in Tennessee for 2023
Union University, a private, Christian institution located in Jackson, Tennessee, offers doctoral degree programs in two fields. For professional educators, Union offers both a Doctor of Education in Higher Education and a Doctor of Education in P-12 School Administration. The P-12 degree has three specializations: Instructional Leadership (licensure), Teacher Leadership (non-licensure), and Leadership in School Reform (non-licensure). Both EdD programs feature fully online coursework along with one-week in-person residencies on the school's Jackson campus. Nurses seeking to become top leaders in their profession can choose from several Doctor of Nursing Practice options, including Executive Leadership, Nurse Anesthesia, and Nurse Practitioner (Family NP and Psychiatric Mental Health NP). DNP programs are offered in fully online and blended formats depending on the specific specialization. Both BSN-DNP and post-master's DNP options are also available.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Education in P-12 School Administration
- Credits: 60
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $721/credit
- Mode: Fully online plus residency
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Doctor of Education in Higher Education
- Credits: 60
- Length: 3 1/2 years
- Cost: $721/credit
- Mode: Fully online plus residency
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Credits: 73 tp 99 (BSN-DNP); 38 (Post-Master's DNP)
- Length: 36 months (BSN-DNP); 5 or 8 semesters (Post-Master's DNP)
- Cost: $1,064/credit
- Mode: Blended
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio9
Private, Baptist Carson-Newman University in Jefferson City, Tennessee, offers two doctoral degree programs featuring online formats. Its fully online Doctorate of Education (EdD) program is designed for professionals with a previously earned advanced (master's or education specialist) degree seeking to move into top-tier positions in the education field. Options are available in Administrative Leadership and Curriculum and Instruction Leadership. Graduates may be eligible for licensure depending on the requirements in specific jurisdictions. Studies culminate in the completion of a capstone project. Coursework in Carson-Newman's Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is also delivered fully online with the exception of the program's first class which includes a two-day on-campus seminar. Financial aid opportunities are available for all qualifying students, including the school's no-interest payment plans.
Program Highlights:
Doctorate of Education
- Credits: 57
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $620/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: CAEP
Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Credits: 33
- Length: 5 semesters
- Cost: $905/credit
- Mode: Fully online plus residency and clinicals
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio14
Through its Peabody College of Education and Human Development, private Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee offers a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Leadership and Learning in Organizations designed for mid-career education professionals with at least three years of leadership experience. Coursework in the cohort-based program focuses on three foundational areas of leadership and learning: learning and design, data and analytics, and leadership and organizational development. The program features primarily online coursework attended live online in the evening, Monday through Thursday. Students also must attend three, 2-day-long, on-campus convenings during this EdD program. The program culminates with a capstone project where students identify a real-world organizational problem or issue, test a solution, and make a recommendation for the long-term resolution of the problem or issue.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning in Organizations
- Credits: 54
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $2,245/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio8
Tennessee's Trevecca Nazarene University offers three doctorate programs featuring online study options, including a PhD in Clinical Counseling in Teaching and Supervision. This degree prepares graduates for careers as mental health professionals, researchers, supervisors, counselor educators, and other leaders in the clinical counseling field. The program combines synchronous and asynchronous coursework with two-day to three-day on-campus residencies each semester. Students work in cohorts with both online and on-campus students. Trevecca's online Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) can be completed 100% online with no residency requirements. Five track options are available: Consulting and Coaching, Enterprise Leading and Management, Healthcare Administration, Higher Education, and Interdisciplinary Studies. The program culminates with a dissertation. Travecca's fully online (no residency) Doctor of Education in Leadership program helps professional educators advance into top positions in their field through its seven tracks: Consulting and Coaching, Enterprise Leading and Management, Healthcare Administration, Higher Education, Interdisciplinary Studies, Organizational Intelligence, Pre-K-12 District Leadership, and Professional Practice.
Program Highlights:
PhD in Clinical Counseling: Teaching and Supervision
- Credits: 66
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $799/credit
- Mode: Fully online plus short-term residencies
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
Doctor of Business Administration
- Credits: 60
- Length: 32 months
- Cost: $699/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Doctor of Education in Leadership
- Credits: 60
- Length: 27 months
- Cost: $699/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio17
There are two doctoral degrees offered by the University of Tennessee Chattanooga featuring online study. The Doctor of Education in Leadership and Instructional Practice is designed for professionals in a range of fields (e.g., business, health/social services, technology, nonprofits, and education) interested in the relationship between leadership and learning in the instructional process. Coursework is 100% online in an asynchronous format plus occasional synchronous meetings with faculty. This cohort-based program starts annually each summer. Admission requirements include a master's (or equivalent) with a 3.0 or higher GPA on all prior graduate coursework and at least two years of professional experience in an organizational/institutional setting. UT Chattanooga's online Doctor of Nursing Practice program offers two track options: Nursing for current master's prepared advanced practice nurses and Nursing Administration Systems for BSN to DNP students and nurses with non-advanced practice master's. Coursework is delivered primarily online, but students must attend a small number of on-campus activities.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Education in Leadership and Instructional Practice
- Credits: 66
- Length: About 3 years
- Cost: $562/credit (in-state); $609/credit (out-of-state)
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Credits: 36 (Nursing); 57 (Nursing Administration Systems)
- Length: 6 semesters (Nursing); 7 semesters (Nursing Administration Systems)
- Cost: $562/credit (in-state); $609/credit (out-of-state)
- Mode: Online plus some short-term on-campus components
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio18
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio17
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio15
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio16
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio10
Opportunities for Doctoral Funding in Tennessee
Paying for a doctoral degree can be a financial burden, but it doesn’t have to be. There are a variety of financial aid opportunities available to doctoral students in Tennessee, including scholarships/grants, fellowships, and work-study programs. Students can also work as graduate research assistants or as teaching assistants to help ease the financial burden.
Sometimes, these assistantships or fellowships fully fund the PhD, meaning students don’t have to pay tuition, and they get a living stipend. For example, Vanderbilt University offers fully funded fellowships to all doctoral students in the English department, and the University of Tennessee offers fully funded assistantships to select degree programs, such as their four fellowships allotted for business analytics doctoral students.
From PhDs to Paychecks: Average Earnings in Tennessee
Graduating from an online PhD program in Tennessee isn’t only a rewarding experience; it can skyrocket your career and earning potential. In Tennessee, those with a PhD earn a median wage of $71,000 annually, compared to the $60,830 annual salary of those with only an undergraduate degree. Of course, the opportunities and corresponding salaries differ from industry to industry. Someone with a DBA in human resources most likely won’t be applying to the same jobs as a nurse practitioner. While you should consider the options in your field, here are some of the corresponding job titles and earnings of graduates from popular PhD topics.
| Job Title | Related Doctoral Degree(s) | Median Earnings | 90th Percentile Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chief Executive Officer | Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) | $152,660 | $208,000 |
| Computer Research Scientist | PhD in Computer Science | $97,710 | $132,800 |
| Economist | PhD in Economics | $81,590 | $ 193,690 |
| Epidemiologist | PhD in Public Health / Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) | $78,830 | $130,050 |
| Human Resources Executive | Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) | $96,610 | $160,920 |
| Nurse Practitioner | Doctor of Nursing Practice | $99,630 | $129,510 |
| Physical Therapist | Doctor of Physical Therapy | $95,370 | $106,040 |
| Physicists | PhD in Physics | $125,340 | $208,000 |
| Psychologist | Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) / PhD in Psychology | $98,030 | $208,000 |
| School Principal/Administrator | Doctor of Education (EdD) | $77,190 | $118,900 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2021