A variety of reasons exist to choose a distance learning program to earn your doctorate. Online programs are convenient because you attend class using your computer, from the comfort of your home. The programs offer flexibility because in many courses, you can record the classes and watch them when you have time. Some negative aspects also exist for taking your doctoral classes online. This option may be more expensive than attending a traditional program. Many doctoral students teach and work on campus when attending traditional programs, offsetting their cost of tuition. If you choose an online program, this will not be an option.
When choosing the distance doctoral program that is right for you, be sure to research accreditation. This means a credentialing body determined the academic program meets certain preset standards. Certain fields of study require students attend a school that receives accreditation from specific organizations. For instance, students who want to teach business in a university setting after they earn their doctorate may have to attend a school accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Liberty University offers a Doctorate in Counseling program with specializations in either pastoral care and counseling or professional counseling. The program is open to students who have earned their master's degree in counseling or a seminary degree. Doctoral students become church administrators, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors and university professors or administrators. Liberty also offers a Ph.D. in Theology and Apologetics. Students who earn this degree can work as pastors, or as university professors or administrators. Other traditional colleges offering online doctoral programs include the University of Maryland-University College and Herzing University.
Some universities offer only online programs. Capella University offers several doctoral programs in business, counseling, information technology, education, public safety, heath administration and human services. Students have access to experienced faculty, original research and occasional residential opportunities that allow you to meet face-to-face with faculty, advisers and peers. The University of Phoenix offers two programs, including a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration and a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology.