Saturday, August 7, 2010

How to Compare Online PhD Programs

In effort to remain competitive in today's fast moving business world, many professionals are finding it necessary to advanced their studies up to the PhD level. However, not many of these professionals are willing to uproot their families and relocate to new places. But thanks to the Internet, it is now possible to earn a PhD from home - meaning you can study without giving up on your family or full time job.

Online PhD programs from reputable universities make it possible for you to earn the highest academic credential while keeping current job to help pay for schooling. You should however be careful when choosing a distance learning PhD to avoid falling for degree mill scams that can get you sacked.

Here is how to compare and select the genuine online doctorate programs from the Internet world:


Accreditation: Under all circumstances, never settle for a school that is not accredited (recognized) by an authorized accreditation organization. Degree mills will often list a fake or unauthorized accreditation organization and market their online PhD program extensively.

Online Verification: Every accredited online college and university is listed at the US Department of Education. You should only settle for a program that is on that list because this will give you a ready answer if a potential employer ever questions you about the legitimacy of your online PhD.

Brick and motor schools: You should find out if the university offering the PhD program is a virtual only institution or there is a brick and motor campus that offers off-line programs. The latter usually enjoys a better reputation and cannot offer fake degrees.

Completion time: It takes between 3 to 4 years of study to earn a doctorate degree. However, online PhD degrees can be completed in a 2 years. A school that advertises one year completion times must be avoided as you may end up getting a worthless certificate.

Student-teacher interaction: An online doctorate program that offers face-to-face interaction between students and the faculty is usually more credible.

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