Accelerated PhD Programs
Searching for Accelerated PhD Programs?
Knowing the basics of what a PhD program usually entails, you may be puzzled by colleges which offer “accelerated PhD programs.” Since PhD programs are typically more or less self paced, that’s understandable.
First of all, the term accelerated PhD doesn’t mean the same thing for every program, and that naturally leads to more confusion.
When colleges and universities use the word “accelerated” to refer to a PhD program, it can mean one, or a combination, of several different things.
- The program combines the PhD program with receiving another degree–basically, you’ll get your PhD sooner because you’ll do two degree programs “at once” rather than back to back.
- The required coursework is conducted through accelerated classes
- There is a greater emphasis placed on coursework (which is accelerated) rather than a dissertation
In certain programs–typically “practical” vs. “research” focused programs, accelerated PhD programs may simply refer to programs which have all required courses available at an accelerated pace, and no dissertation requirement, or an adjusted required.
Accelerated PhD Programs Online
One of the most common (and popular) methods of earning an accelerated PhD is through online study. Through a combination of accelerated semesters and online study, most students are able to earn their an accelerated pace. Currently, Walden University and Capella University offer the most accredited PhD programs at this time.
Walden University – Online PhD Programs
Walden University offers accelerated classes: 8 week online classes.
Walden University’s doctoral programs have a unique blend of theory, research, and practical application to help you make an immediate and significant change in your life and in the lives of others.
Online Doctoral Programs:
- Business Administration – DBA (10 fields of specialization)
- Management (14 concentrations)
- Education – offers both PhD and Ed.D. (multiple fields of specialization available)
- Counselor Education (6 fields of specialization)
- Health Services (11 fields of specialization)
- Human Services (17 fields of specialization)
- Psychology (7 fields of specialization)
- Public Health (3 fields of specialization)
- Public Policy (27 fields of specialization)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
As a doctoral student, you will work closely with faculty in areas of study that are most meaningful to you. Faculty members serve as mentors and partners, offering both guidance and a fresh perspective on your research.
Read more or get a free program guide from Walden University.
Capella University – Online PhD Programs
Capella University offers accelerated classes: 10 week online classes.
Many higher education faculty positions require a doctoral degree which can prepare you for leadership, research, teaching, or consulting positions in a variety of fields. Capella’s online doctoral programs offer advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in a wide-range of fields.
Online Doctorate Degrees:
Most of the doctoral programs listed below have multiple areas of specialization available.
- Accounting
- Business
- Business Intelligence
- Counselor Education
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- Educational Psychology
- Emergency Management
- Health Administration
- Human Behavior
- Human Services
- Information Technology
- Organization and Management
- Psychology
- Health Care Administration
- Human Resource Management
- Industrial/Organizational Psychology
- Information Security
- Information Technology Management
- Information Technology Project Management
- Leadership
- Nonprofit Management
- Nursing Education
- Project Management
- Public Administration
- Public Health
- Public Safety Leadership
- Social and Community Services
- Social Work
- Supply Chain Management
- Training and Performance Improvement
Read more or get a free program guide from Capella University.
Are Accelerated PhD Programs the Real Thing?
Well, some of them are. Obviously no degree from a school that isn’t properly accredited is the “real thing,” and there are accelerated PhD scams. But it’s more complex than that too.
If the PhD is a practical one–that is, something like a doctorate in nursing–then accelerated PhD programs (which are accredited, etc.) may offer the exact same course requirements as traditional programs–these are just as reputable as any other.
If the accelerated program is a combination of degrees, and includes the same requirements as a traditional PhD, it’s probably also acceptable.
However, if you are interested in pursuing an education in academia at a teaching or research university, beware of an accelerated PhD program that doesn’t have a strict dissertation requirement.