CHECK TO SEE IF IT IS CONNECTED TO BRICK AND MORTAR.
One of the quickest ways to sort between online PhD programs is to find out if it is a virtual only institution or if there is an actual campus that runs separately from its online PhD programs. Brick and mortar institutions usually have a larger support base, require more endowment, and therefore have higher quality with more hard-earned reputation.
CHECK OUT IT'S ACCREDITATION.
If a school is not accredited by a *recognized* accreditation organization than you don't want it. Online PhD programs will often almost copy a real institutions name, list a fake or unrecognized accrediting organization, and hype up their program extensively. For more on finding accredited online degrees see the related article to the right.
COMPARE AMOUNTS OF FACE-TO-FACE INTERACTION.
Credible online PhD programs will still have you come on-site to meet with your advising professor at a minimum, and to take intensive classes throughout the program at a maximum. You will find online PhD programs that have face-to-face interaction to usually be more credible, to often have a higher placement rate, and a higher student satisfaction rate.
COMPARE TIME TO COMPLETION.
Online PhD degrees can vary widely in this department. However, you want to be sure you are being qualified for your teaching career, not just jumping through a hoop to get a piece of paper. If online PhD programs advertise one year completion times, steer away. Not only will your education be weak, the diploma may be worthless.
GET THE TOTAL COST PICTURE.
Comparing online PhD programs in the cost department can be apples to oranges comparison unless you get the total cost picture. Be sure to include tuition, books, supplies, travel, software, lodging, taxes, and fees.
COMPARE PROFESSOR'S EXPERIENCE, PUBLICATION, AND REPUTATION.
In college and masters degrees, the program was more important than anything else. Individual professors would come and go. With online PhD degrees, or any PhD degree, your advisor will be the single most important factor of the program, and sometimes your career. Be sure your professors are published, well respected, and experienced in helping doctoral students.
See more tips and warnings about online PhD degrees below.