Colorado Technical University's doctoral degree programs do not require a dissertation. Depending on the program, students can take either 12 three-credit research and writing courses or create a series of publishable research papers in lieu of a dissertation. Colorado Technical University offers doctorates in computer science and management. Specializations include enterprise information systems, information assurance, global leadership, emerging media, homeland security, digital systems security, environmental and social sustainability and organizational development and change. For admission consideration, applicants need only submit master's level transcripts.
Columbia Southern University in Alabama offers a doctorate in business administration. Students may opt to a complete a research project in lieu of a dissertation. Research projects should show how published journal content supports researcher development. Successful applicants hold bachelor's and master's degrees, are fluent in English and have two years of work experience in the field. Transcripts from the master's degree program must show a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants who are not native English speakers must earn a score of 550 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language. As of February 2011, program tuition is $300 per semester hour.
Virginia's Regent University doctoral candidates study biblical scripture to understand and apply the roots of organizational and strategic leadership. In lieu of a dissertation, learned knowledge is applied practically to work environments via online teaching, publishing research papers and providing consulting service to clients. Regent University refers to this as an autonomous learning model. Available programs include a doctorate of philosophy in organizational leadership and a doctorate of strategic leadership. Successful applicants must submit a resume, an essay, a writing sample and school transcripts. As of February 2011, tuition for fall 2010 to summer 2011 is $925 per credit hour. Tuition for fall 2011 to summer 2012 is $950 per credit hour.