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Best 18-Month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs

A PhD helps you advance your career and secure senior leadership positions. However, if you’re a busy working professional struggling to manage your family, work, and personal commitments, full-time enrollment with dissertation requirements might not be an option. Most PhDs take 3-7 years to complete, with lots of time spent on dissertations.

But what if you could study a PhD without dissertation requirements or lengthy durations?

Sure, online PhD programs offer more flexibility; however, you’ll still spend years studying.

Luckily, many schools offer 18-month doctorate without dissertation programs that you can complete in record time, often while studying online on your own schedule. Does that mean you can find the easiest PhD without dissertation requirements? Let’s find out.

Here are some of the top universities and no-dissertation PhD programs you can finish in just 18 months or a little more.

Table of Contents

Top 18-month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs

We’ve separated our list of doctorate degrees without dissertation into a few categories: education, nursing, physical therapy, and business management.

Walden University

PhD in Education (P-20 Education)

Walden University is known for offering research doctorates to African-American students and has many flexible options in various disciplines to extend education to everyone. This flexible PhD without dissertation requirements is a fabulous education program where you can design your study based on your interests.

Courses: Leading the future of education, governance & politics of education, and learning experiences in supportive environments.
Credits: 86
Delivery: Online
Tuition: $692 per quarter hour
Financial aid: Grants, education assistance, and loans.
Acceptance rate: 100%
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Nebraska Methodist College

Online Doctorate in Education & Leadership in Healthcare

Nebraska Methodist College is one of the country’s most famous allied healthcare colleges and offers more than 40 healthcare and education programs online and on-campus. You don’t need to complete a dissertation or submit GRE scores to apply for this doctoral degree online; no dissertation. You can also balance your studies with other parts of your life by choosing between part-time or full-time options.

Courses: Information technology in healthcare & education, legal & ethical issues in organizations, and healthcare policy.
Duration: 24 months
Cost per credit hour : $817
Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans.
Acceptance rate: 92%
Location: Omaha, Nebraska

Nova Southeastern University, College of Education & School of Criminal Justice

EdD – Educational Leadership

Nova Southeastern University is a nationally renowned private institution that embraces social mobility and diversity. The institution offers an EdD that doesn’t require a dissertation. Instead, you’ll need to complete a Strategic Research Project (SRP) amounting to 12 credits.

Courses: Leadership, communication, & technology, legal & ethical issues in educational leadership, and leading an educational organization.
Credits: 55
Delivery: On-campus
Tuition : $1,505 per credit
Financial aid: Scholarships, employer assistance, and veteran benefits.
Acceptance rate: 76%
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Maryville University

Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

Maryville University is renowned for innovative and comprehensive education, using advanced technology to deliver distance learning programs across a range of disciplines. If you are a working nursing professional, this doctoral degree without dissertation requirements will qualify you to reach the highest levels of nursing leadership.

Courses: Principles of epidemiology & biostatistics, ethics for advanced nursing practice, and professional role development.
Credits: 33
Duration: 20 months
Delivery: Online
Tuition : $813 per credit
Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and employer assistance.
Acceptance rate: 95%
Location: St. Louis, Missouri

Monmouth University

Online DNP Program

Monmouth University has a low student-faculty ratio and believes in immersive learning experiences beyond the classroom. This DNP doctoral program without dissertation requirements helps students analyze evidence to improve clinical policies and practices.

Courses: Translating evidence to clinical practice, organizational leadership in healthcare, and health care economics and financial management.
Credits: 36
Tuition : $1,348 per credit hour
Acceptance rate: 79%
Location: West Long Branch, New Jersey

Bay Path University

Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse

Bay Path University is a non-profit institution that offers a range of opportunities for lifelong learning, especially for women. This DNP program seeks to prepare nursing professionals with modern evidence-based knowledge to handle advanced nursing practitioner roles, especially in the family health sphere. You can complete this online doctorate (no dissertation) at your own pace.

Courses: Managing healthcare delivery systems, healthcare informatics, and biostatistics & epidemiology.
Tuition : $995 per credit
Financial aid: Federal loans and private loans.
Acceptance rate: 78%
Location: Longmeadow, Massachusetts

Physical Therapy

The university of north carolina at chapel hill, school of medicine.

Transitional Doctorate in Physical Therapy

The University of North Carolina is ranked #5 for research among public universities and has two Nobel laureates. This non-thesis PhD helps licensed physical therapists gain advanced knowledge and skills in their area of practice. Additionally, physical therapists earn a median salary of $91,010, making this program one of the highest-paid PhDs . Balance familial and work responsibilities easily as you complete this doctorate degree online (no dissertation).

Courses: Advanced patient management, advanced neuromuscular intervention, and advanced practice issues.
Credits: 27
Tuition : $902 per credit
Financial aid: Scholarships, loans, and employee benefits.
Acceptance rate: 25%
Location: North Carolina, Chapel Hill

Gannon University

Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate

Gannon University is a private Christian institution with a low student-faculty ratio that offers various online programs. This is one of few occupational therapy doctorate degrees without dissertations that help physical therapy professionals translate knowledge from cross-disciplinary theories and research into practice, enabling them to grow beyond a therapist-clinician role.

Courses: Applied research in clinical practice, advanced leadership & ethics, and entrepreneurship for the IT professional.
Credits: 34
Duration: 2 years
Tuition : $770 per credit
Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and veteran benefits.
Acceptance rate: 79%
Location: Erie, Pennsylvania

Business Management

Capella university.

Doctor of Business Administration in Strategy & Innovation

Capella University is a private institution that strives to extend education to all by offering programs that fit with busy routines. As a result, many of its programs are highly flexible, allowing you to finish at your own pace. The institution also makes it easy to manage study costs by only requiring payment for 12 weeks instead of per credit. This doctorate without dissertation offers two streams: the GuidedPath, where you have a pre-fixed curriculum structure, and FlexPath, where you can modify the structure and complete the program according to your pace and convenience.

Courses: Effective organizational leadership, strategic decision making, and teaching business in higher education.
Credits: 45
Tuition : $545 – $810
Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, loans, and military benefits.
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Liberty University

Online Doctor of Business Administration

Liberty University has been named one of the top 5 online universities and is known for its quality, accessibility, and affordability. This flexible DBA program allows you to specialize in one of a range of business areas, from international business to healthcare management. No dissertation is required for this doctorate degree online.

Courses: Strategic allocation of financial resources, marketing for competitive advantage, and quantitative research methods.
Credits: 60
Tuition: $595 per credit
Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and military benefits.
Acceptance rate: 50%
Location: Lynchburg, Virginia

What Is a Dissertation and How Does it Work?

A dissertation, sometimes called a thesis, involves conducting research before writing a final report to summarize the research’s findings. It is a fundamental requirement of many graduate programs, especially doctorates, and allows students to develop advanced research, writing, and analytical skills. If a panel approves your dissertation, it will become a part of the field’s current body of knowledge.

The student may choose the topic independently or in consultation with an advisor. In some cases, students can collaborate with faculty members to conduct research. Once complete, the university evaluates the dissertation, and their assessment often decides whether the candidate achieves their PhD .

Why Do So Many Programs Require Dissertations?

A dissertation is usually the most involved and longest-running assignment you need to complete as part of a graduate program. Many schools include a dissertation in the program to develop and test students’ research abilities and set them up for careers in academia.

However, some universities offer graduate programs that don’t require a dissertation. Instead, these programs involve additional research-oriented courses for the students to make up their credits.

Ranking Methodology for 18-month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs

We put together the above list of universities and doctorate programs across various disciplines based on their requirements for a dissertation and the total duration of the program. Of course, we gave preference to 18-month programs, but we also included some slightly longer programs.

Most programs don’t require any dissertation at all, while some require fair research activity for satisfactory completion. We ranked the programs based on accessibility, delivery mode, courses, faculty, and school reputation.

Key Takeaways

While most doctorate programs include a mandatory dissertation, several universities now offer no-dissertation programs. These are ideal for working students who may not be able to attend full-time, on-campus programs involving extensive research that can take years to complete.

But you might wonder whether an 18-month doctorate without dissertation status is still valuable. The good news is that it is — a doctorate without a dissertation is nonetheless a respected advanced degree that can significantly boost your career and secure well-paid, senior positions in the field of your choice.

Looking for other ways to speed up your post-graduate education?

Explore the Best 1-Year PhD Online Programs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get a doctorate without doing a dissertation.

Yes. Many universities offer doctorate programs that don’t require a dissertation at all. Review the ones we’ve listed in this article for more information.

What Is a Doctorate Without a Dissertation Called?

There’s no particular term for doctorates without dissertations. Instead, they’re simply known as PhDs, EdDs, DNPs, or doctorate degrees. However, some institutions call them “no-dissertation programs” on their official websites.

Is a Dissertation Required for a PhD?

At many universities, a dissertation is an important and indispensable part of a PhD curriculum. However, some universities offer doctorate programs that don’t require a dissertation or thesis for completion. This can be a good option if you’re uninterested in research, don’t wish to work in academia, or are looking for an accelerated option.

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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Online Ed.D. Programs Without a Dissertation

Last updated on January 23rd, 2024 at 09:57 am

Online Ed.D. programs—and in-person doctorates—always contain a rigorous, research-based project. In the past, this has been a traditional dissertation, just like a Ph.D. program. But in recent years, more and more schools are choosing to focus on a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) or Capstone Project . Discover how these two "No Dissertation" models differ from the older framework. Or skip ahead to the online listings and on-campus listings to explore your options!

No matter what Ed.D. you choose, you are always going to have to complete a research-based doctoral project. Schools that advertise “No Dissertation” Ed.D. programs typically require a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) or capstone project . These are the doctorates that we’ve included in our online listings . Examples include:

University of Missouri-St. Louis’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Practice . UMSL employs an 8-credit Dissertation in Practice (DiP) model, which is completed through group work.
University of Southern California’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Leadership . This program involves a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) that focuses on issues impeding K-12 students’ access to learning opportunities.
University of Southern Mississippi’s Online Ed.D. in Educational Administration . This degree includes a 12-credit capstone research project, which runs the length of the program. Students are expected to focus on a problem of practice in their workplace.
Nebraska Methodist College’s Online Ed.D. in Education and Leadership in Healthcare . This “No Dissertation” degree contains an 8-credit capstone split into four courses over a six-term program.
National University’s Online Ed.D. in Organizational Innovation , which requires a culminating project, worth 9 quarter credits. This is a written work based on research students do in their workplace.

Note: Avoid like the plague any Ed.D. program that has no DiP or capstone requirement! They almost certainly will a) not be accredited; and b) not be recognized by employers.

What is a Traditional Ed.D. Dissertation?

A traditional Ed.D. dissertation is a five-chapter paper, roughly the length of a short book. It shows that you can conduct original research into the field of education. The dissertation process starts as soon as you begin your online Ed.D. or on-campus doctorate and it can be broken down into six steps:

Choose a Research Topic: Near the beginning of the Ed.D. program, you’ll be expected to identify a topic that will require substantial research. This topic should revolve around a unique issue in education (e.g. Helping Intellectually Gifted Middle School Students, Bridging the Gap Between Training and Educating in Adult Learning, etc.).
Craft a Proposal: You’ll use the knowledge you’ve gained from didactic coursework and Ed.D. research classes to write the opening chapters of your dissertation, including an introduction that defines your chosen problem, a literature review, and a proposed methodology for finding the answer.
Defend the Proposal: Before proceeding, you will need to present your dissertation proposal to a committee. The committee will want to see that your research is significant and relevant works are included in the literature review. In online Ed.D. programs, this defense can usually be done virtually.
Research the Topic: After making any necessary tweaks to the proposal, and getting it approved, you can begin researching your topic.
Write the Remainder of the Dissertation: Once you have completed your research, you’ll write up the final chapters—one chapter will detail your findings; the other should contain an analysis of what your findings mean and how they might apply to professional situations.
Defend Your Dissertation: At the end of the Ed.D. degree, you must present your dissertation to the committee (usually in an oral presentation). After you have incorporated any notes from the committee, you can finalize your draft and graduate.

Note: Several universities publish full Ed.D. dissertations online, among them George Fox and the University of San Francisco .

Practice-Focused Alternatives: The “No Dissertation” Model of the DiP or Capstone Project

Unlike Ph.D. programs, Ed.D. programs are focused on professional practice—on-campus and online Ed.D. graduates are expected to apply their research in order to solve or improve real-world problems. To that end, many universities in our online listings and on-campus listings have been moving away from a traditional dissertation to more innovative models.

What does an Ed.D. Without a Dissertation Entail?

In general, all alternatives to a traditional Ed.D. dissertation involve a Problem of Practice (PoP) in the workplace. When you tackle a Dissertation in Practice (DiP) or capstone project , you’ll be using your research to create practical & workable solutions (e.g. recommending better practices or creating different approaches to current practice).

As we mentioned, you’ll sometimes see these kinds of education doctorates labeled as “No Dissertation” degrees. But keep in mind that the final project will be just as challenging as a traditional dissertation! Be prepared for a lot of on-the-ground research and writing.

Dissertation in Practice (DiP)

In the 2000s, the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) wanted to make the Ed.D. more relevant for school practitioners and education leaders. So it devised a new Framework for Ed.D. Program Design , with a) a new definition of the Ed.D.; b) a list of guiding principles for program development; and c) a set of building blocks for the degree.

One of these building blocks is the Dissertation in Practice (DiP) . During a DiP, you’ll be expected to:

Tackle a complex Problem of Practice (PoP) facing an organization or stakeholder group in education.
Create an innovative, research-based project that can help guide other educators and be used in the field.
Integrate concepts of practice, leadership, and equity into your project.

DiPs are geared toward working professionals who want to make substantive changes in education. Experienced practitioners act as DiP advisors; collaboration is encouraged; and applied research & theory is the name of the game. Examples of this practical approach include ASU’s focus on “action research” within the workplace; Pitt’s use of “improvement science” to address equity and justice; and Harvard’s concern with “strategy in action.”

Capstone Project

While you’re examining universities, you may also come across Ed.D. programs that contain a culminating project , scholarly delivery , applied inquiry project , or a capstone project . The choice of language is determined by graduate faculty and the university. But all of them hold the equivalent weight of a traditional dissertation or DiP.

To get a sense of how an on-campus or online Ed.D. capstone project is structured, we recommend you examine the Ed.D. program page carefully.

Some schools like to put an emphasis on group work.
Others are interested in seeing innovative final projects/deliverables.
Many follow the DiP model.

An education doctorate with a capstone project is probably the closest you’re going to get to a “No Dissertation Ed.D.” You’ll often be in involved in more collaboration and hands-on deliverables. But you’re always going to have to produce rigorous, research-focused results.

Note: CPED posts examples of award-winning Ed.D. Dissertations in Practice in its Resource Center and UW Tacoma maintains a database of Dissertations in Practice/Capstone Projects .

How an Ed.D. Capstone Project Works

Let’s say you’ve decided on pursuing an accredited, on-campus or online Ed.D. without a dissertation. How can you be sure that the final research project is going to be as tough as the traditional model? Here is a general summary of the steps involved in completing a strong Ed.D. capstone project:

Choose a Capstone Topic: The beginning of your Ed.D. will typically be front-loaded with foundational coursework, as well as classes on how to conduct research. It’s here that you’ll start to explore what a good capstone topic might be and learn about relevant research tools.
Meet with an Advisor: You’ll work with an advisor to firm up the real-world problem you want to address and determine how to approach it. Part of this process will involve figuring out what an appropriate deliverable would be (e.g. change management plan, new curriculum, portfolio of educational materials, etc.).
Draft a Proposal: About halfway through the program, you may be expected to draft a report that contains a problem statement, an outline of your process for finding solutions, and a description of deliverables.
Defend the Proposal: Before any actual research takes place, the committee needs to sign off on your proposal.
Research the Topic: Even without a standard Ed.D. dissertation, there’s no getting around conducting research. The key difference is how that research is gathered and applied. You may end up combining traditional research with action research and/or evaluation research (e.g. collecting and analyzing real-time data from your workplace).
Defend Your Findings: You have one more defense—this time of your research findings and accompanying recommendations. This is separate from the project deliverable.
Produce a Deliverable: The deliverable/final project is something that an organization can actually use to improve educational access or outcomes.

Ed.D. Traditional Dissertation vs. DiP/Capstone Project

As long as they contain a DiP or capstone, accredited on-campus & online Ed.D. programs without a dissertation carry the same weight as doctoral programs with traditional dissertations. There’s absolutely no difference in quality. The CPED consortium includes numerous prominent universities , and U.S. News & World Report highly ranks several schools with Ed.D. capstone components. So you have a choice.

Traditional Ed.D. Dissertation

You may wish to consider Ed.D. programs with a traditional dissertation if you want to dig deep into original research. This research may not be immediately applicable to your workplace, but it will help advance educators’ understanding of an issue. It contributes new knowledge to the field. Some dissertation writers like to investigate cultural topics (e.g. Latinx learning experiences); others are interested in the effect of education in particular settings (e.g. U.S. prison system).

Ed.D. Capstone Project or DiP: The “No Dissertation” Model

If you would like to tackle a specific problem in your workplace, then we recommend you consider in-person or online Ed.D. programs with a DiP or capstone project. These doctorates are focused on applied theory & research—you will be expected to test & implement changes over the course of your degree (e.g. new education methods, curriculum changes, leadership interventions, etc.). Ed.D. programs without a dissertation may also contain more group work and interpersonal opportunities.

Note: If you don’t have the capacity for a large research project at this time, you could consider pursuing an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree . This leaves the door open for you to complete an Ed.D. completion program or All But Dissertation (ABD) program later down the track.

All Online No-Dissertation EdD Programs

49 Schools Found

Arizona State University

Teacher's College

Tempe, Arizona

EdD in Leadership and Innovation

Curriculum Info
How To Apply

EdD in Leadership and Innovation - Higher Education Change Leadership

Edd in leadership and innovation - pk-12 change leadership, edd in leadership and innovation - systems, professional and reimagined change leadership, online edd in leadership and innovation.

Offered Online

Online EdD in Leadership and Innovation - Higher Education Change Leadership

Online edd in leadership and innovation - pk-12 change leadership, online edd in leadership and innovation - systems, professional and reimagined change leadership, university of arizona.

Department of Educational Policy Studies and Practice

Tucson, Arizona

EdD in Educational Leadership

National university.

Sanford College of Education

La Jolla, California

Online Ed.D. in Organizational Innovation

University of southern california.

Rossier School of Education

Los Angeles, California

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Doctor of education in educational leadership - educational psychology, doctor of education in educational leadership - higher education administration, doctor of education in educational leadership - teacher education in multicultural societies, global executive doctor of education, online doctor of education in educational leadership - k-12 leadership in urban school settings, online doctor of education in educational leadership - leading instructional change, connecticut, sacred heart university.

Isabelle Farrington College Of Education

Fairfield, Connecticut

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership

Wilmington university.

College of Education

New Castle, Delaware

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership - District Leadership

Doctor of education in educational leadership - school leadership, doctor of education in educational leadership - teacher leadership, doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation, doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation - strategic leadership, doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation - talent development, doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation - workplace learning, edd in higher education leadership and innovation, online doctor of education in organizational, learning, leadership and innovation, online edd in higher education leadership and innovation, district of columbia, american university.

School of Education

Washington, District of Columbia

Online EdD in Education Policy and Leadership

Nova southeastern university.

Fischler College of Education

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

EdD in Curriculum and Instruction

Edd in higher education leadership, edd in higher services administration, edd in instructional technology and distance education, edd in organizational leadership, edd in reading education, edd in special education, online edd in curriculum and instruction, online edd in educational leadership, online edd in higher education leadership, online edd in higher services administration, online edd in instructional technology and distance education, online edd in organizational leadership, online edd in reading education, online edd in special education, university of florida.

Gainesville, Florida

Online Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction - Teachers, Schools, and Society

University of miami.

Coral Gables, Florida

Doctor of Education in Applied Learning Sciences

Georgia southern university.

Statesboro, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Curriculum Studies - Cultural Curriculum Studies

Doctor of education in curriculum studies - learning, development, and curriculum, doctor of education in curriculum studies - multicultural and social justice education, doctor of education in educational leadership - p-12 administration, governors state university.

University Park, Illinois

Online Doctor of Education in Interdisciplinary Leadership - Higher Education Administration

Online doctor of education in interdisciplinary leadership - not for profit/social entrepreneurship leadership, online doctor of education in interdisciplinary leadership - superintendent p-12, national louis university.

National College of Education/School of Business and Management

Chicago, Illinois

Doctorate of Education in Higher Education Leadership

Online doctorate of education in higher education leadership, allen college.

School of Health Sciences

Waterloo, Iowa

Doctor of Education in Health Professions Education

University of saint mary.

Education Department

Leavenworth, Kansas

Doctor of Education in Leadership - Innovation in Curriculum and Instruction

Doctor of education in leadership - innovative leadership in higher education, johns hopkins university.

Baltimore, Maryland

Online EdD in Instructional Design in Online Teaching and Learning

Massachusetts, bay path university.

Longmeadow, Massachusetts

EdD in Higher Education Leadership & Organizational Studies

Boston college.

Lynch School of Education

Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts

Executive Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education

Executive doctor of education (ed.d.) in higher education - catholic education, boston university.

Wheelock College of Education & Human Development

Boston, Massachusetts

EdD in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies: Leadership in Early Childhood Education-Grade 12

Northeastern university.

College of Professional Studies

Doctor of Education

Online doctor of education - curriculum, teaching, learning and leadership, online doctor of education - higher education administration, online doctor of education - organizational leadership studies, regis college.

School of Arts and Sciences

Weston, Massachusetts

Andrews University

Department of Leadership

Berrien Springs, Michigan

Online Doctor of Leadership (D.Lead)

Cornerstone university.

Adult & Graduate Studies

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Development

Capella university.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

EdD in Adult Education

Edd in performance improvement leadership, edd in reading and literacy, edd, curriculum and instruction, saint mary's university of minnesota.

Graduate School of Education

Winona, Minnesota

Executive Doctor of Education in Leadership

The college of saint scholastica.

Duluth, Minnesota

Doctor of Educational Leadership

Walden university.

Riley College of Education & Leadership

Online Doctor of Education - Community College Leadership

Online doctor of education - curriculum instruction and assessment, online doctor of education - early childhood education, online doctor of education - educational administration and leadership (for administrators), online doctor of education - educational administration and leadership (non-licensure), online doctor of education - educational technology, online doctor of education - higher education (self-designed), online doctor of education - higher education and adult learning, online doctor of education - higher education leadership and management, online doctor of education - p-20 education (self-designed), online doctor of education - reading, literacy, and assessment, online doctor of education - special education, mississippi, university of southern mississippi.

Department of Educational Research and Administration

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Online EdD in Educational Administration - P-12

Online edd in higher education administration, a. t. still university of health sciences.

College of Graduate Health Studies

Kirksville, Missouri

Doctor of Education in Health Professions

Nebraska methodist college of nursing & allied health.

Healthcare Management Department

Omaha, Nebraska

EdD in Education & Leadership in Healthcare

University of nebraska-lincoln.

Department of Educational Administration

Lincoln, Nebraska

Doctor of Education in Educational Studies - Innovative Learning Technologies

Doctor of education in educational studies - teaching, curriculum and learning, fordham university.

Department of Educational Leadership

Bronx, New York

Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership, Administration and Policy

Online doctorate of education in educational leadership, administration and policy, franklin university.

Columbus, Ohio

Online Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership - Higher Education Leadership

Online doctor of education in organizational leadership - organizational leadership focus, online doctor of education in organizational leadership - pk-12 educational leadership, kent state university at kent.

School of Foundations, Leadership and Administration

Ed.D. in Interprofessional Leadership - Athletic Training

Ed.d. in interprofessional leadership - cultural foundations, ed.d. in interprofessional leadership - curriculum & instruction, ed.d. in interprofessional leadership - educational technology, ed.d. in interprofessional leadership - special education, university of dayton.

School of Education and Health Sciences

Dayton, Ohio

Doctor of Education in Leadership for Organizations

South carolina, university of south carolina-columbia.

Columbia, South Carolina

Online Doctor of Education in Educational Practice and Innovation - Education Systems Improvement

Online doctor of education in educational practice and innovation - stem education, online ed.d. in educational practice and innovation with a concentration in curriculum studies, online ed.d. in educational practice and innovation with a concentration in learning design and technologies, east tennessee state university.

Johnson City, Tennessee

Doctorate of Education in Global Sport Leadership

Lipscomb university.

Nashville, Tennessee

Doctorate in Education - Learning Organizations and Strategic Change

Online doctor of education in learning organizations and strategic change, vanderbilt university.

Department of Leadership, Policy, and Organizations

EdD in Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Edd in k-12 educational leadership and policy, online edd in leadership and learning organizations, tarleton state university.

Department of Educational Leadership & Technology

Stephenville, Texas

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership - EC-12 Education Leadership

Ed.d. in educational leadership - higher education leadership, ed.d. in educational leadership - superintendent or principal certification, texas a & m university-college station.

Department of Educational Administration and Human Resource Development

College Station, Texas

Doctor of Education in Educational Administration

Online doctor of education in curriculum and instruction, texas tech university.

Lubbock, Texas

Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Online doctor of education in higher education administration - community college administration, online doctor of education in higher education administration - higher education college/university administration, west texas a & m university.

College of Education and Social Science

Canyon, Texas

Online Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership

Online doctorate of education in leadership in higher education, college of william and mary.

Department of Educational Policy, Planning and Leadership

Williamsburg, Virginia

EdD in Educational Policy, Planning and Leadership - International School Leadership

Edd in educational policy, planning and leadership - gifted education, edd in educational policy, planning and leadership - higher education administration, edd in educational policy, planning and leadership - k-12 administration, liberty university.

Lynchburg, Virginia

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership

Online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - elementary education, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - middle grades education, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - secondary education, online doctor of education in curriculum & instruction - special education, online doctor of education in school administration and supervision, university of virginia.

Curry School of Education

Charlottesville, Virginia

EdD in Administration and Supervision

Edd in higher education, virginia commonwealth university.

Richmond, Virginia

Doctor of Education in Leadership

Doctor of education in leadership - general leadership, doctor of education in leadership - higher education leadership, online doctor of education in leadership, online doctor of education in leadership - general leadership, online doctor of education in leadership - higher education leadership, gonzaga university.

Spokane, Washington

Doctor of Educational Leadership - Educational Leadership Among Indigenous Peoples

Doctor of educational leadership - leadership in catholic schools, doctor of educational leadership - pre-k-12 school leadership, university of wyoming.

Laramie, Wyoming

Online Ed.D. in Education - Higher Education Administration

Online edd in learning, design and technology, all on-campus no-dissertation edd programs.

25 Schools Found

California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, California

Doctorate in Education - Community College Leadership

Doctorate in education - pk-12, la sierra university.

Department of Administration and Leadership

Riverside, California

Doctor of Education in Administration and Leadership

Doctor of education in curriculum and instruction, doctor of education in curriculum and instruction - educational psychology, doctor of education in curriculum and instruction - higher education, doctor of education in curriculum and instruction - leadership and administration, doctor of education in curriculum and instruction - neuroscience and education, doctor of education in educational psychology, doctor of education in educational psychology - mental health, doctor of education in school psychology, doctor of education in school psychology - bcba, university of colorado denver/anschutz medical campus.

School of Education and Human Development

Denver, Colorado

Doctorate in Education - Leadership for Educational Equity

Doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - early childhood education and early childhood special education, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - executive leadership, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - higher education, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - latin learners and community, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - mathematics education, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - professional learning and technology, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - science education, doctorate in education - leadership for educational equity - urban and diverse communities, university of connecticut.

Storrs, Connecticut

Delaware State University

Department of Education

Dover, Delaware

EdD in Educational Leadership in Higher Education

Edd in educational leadership in k-12, university of delaware.

Newark, Delaware

Barry University

Miami, Florida

Doctor of Education in Organizational Learning and Leadership - Higher Education Administration

Edd in organizational learning and leadership - educational leadership, edd in organizational learning and leadership - human resource development, florida state university.

Tallahassee, Florida

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Administration

Doctor of education in learning design & performance technology, lynn university.

Boca Raton, Florida

Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership

University of north florida.

Department of Leadership, School Counseling and Sport Management

Jacksonville, Florida

Augusta University

Augusta, Georgia

Doctor of Education in Educational Innovation - Curriculum and Instruction

Doctor of education in educational innovation - education leadership, doctor of education in educational innovation - elementary education, doctor of education in educational innovation - middle grades, doctor of education in educational innovation - p12 art education, doctor of education in educational innovation - p12 health & physical education, doctor of education in educational innovation - p12 music education, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - biology, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - chemistry, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - earth science, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - economics, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - english, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - french, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - german, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - history, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - mathematics, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - physics, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - political science, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - science education, doctor of education in educational innovation - secondary education - spanish, doctor of education in educational innovation - special education, university of hawaii at manoa.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Education Doctorate in Professional Education Practice

Depaul university, edd in curriculum studies, illinois state university.

Normal, Illinois

EdD in Education Administration and Foundations: P-12 Administration

University of illinois at chicago, doctor of education in urban education leadership, drake university.

Des Moines, Iowa

Doctor of Education with Principal Licensure

Edd in administration with superintendent licensure, university of iowa.

Iowa City, Iowa

Doctor of Education in Education Policy and Leadership Studies - Higher Education

Doctor of education in education policy and leadership studies - pk-12 administration, morehead state university.

Morehead, Kentucky

Doctor of Education in Adult and Higher Education Leadership

Doctor of education in educational technology leadership, doctor of education in p-12 administrative leadership, northern kentucky university.

Department of Counseling, Social Work and Leadership

Highland Heights, Kentucky

Spalding University

Louisville, Kentucky

University of Louisville

Edd in educational leadership and organizational development, university of maryland-college park.

College Park, Maryland

Doctor of Education in School System Leadership

Michigan state university.

Department of Education Administration

East Lansing, Michigan

EdD in Educational Leadership - K12 Administration

University of mississippi.

University, Mississippi

EdD in K-12 Educational Leadership

Edd in math education, maryville university.

Saint Louis, Missouri

Saint Louis University-Main Campus

Doctor of education in educational leadership - catholic, university of missouri-st louis, edd in educational practice, new hampshire, southern new hampshire university.

Manchester, New Hampshire

Rutgers University

Camden, New Jersey

EdD in Design of Learning Environments

Edd in education, culture, and society, edd in teacher leadership, cuny hunter college.

New York, New York

Doctor of Education in Instructional Leadership

New york university.

Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions

EdD in Educational Theatre in Colleges and Communities

Edd in higher education administration, the sage colleges.

Esteves School of Education

Troy, New York

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, New York

Doctorate in Education - Educational Administration

North carolina, east carolina university.

Greenville, North Carolina

EdD in Educational Leadership - Higher Education

Gardner-webb university.

Boiling Springs, North Carolina

Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership

Western carolina university.

Human Services Department

Cullowhee, North Carolina

Wingate University

Wingate, North Carolina

Doctor of Education in Higher Education Executive Leadership

Miami university-oxford.

Oxford, Ohio

Ohio State University-Main Campus

Doctor in education studies - educational administration, pennsylvania, kutztown university of pennsylvania.

Department of Secondary Education

Kutztown, Pennsylvania

Education Doctorate in Transformational Teaching and Learning

University of pittsburgh-pittsburgh campus.

Department of Administrative and Policy Studies

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

EdD in Health and Physical Activity

Edd in higher education management, edd in out of school learning, edd in social and comparative analysis in education, edd in special education - applied behavioral analysis, edd in special education - blindness/vision impairments/orientation and mobility, edd in special education - early intervention, edd in special education - emotional and behavioral disorders, edd in special education - learning disabilities, edd in special education - severe disabilities, edd in stem, clemson university.

Clemson, South Carolina

Doctorate in Education in Education Systems Improvement Science

Texas christian university.

Fort Worth, Texas

Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership

Brigham young university-provo.

McKay School of Education

Provo, Utah

University of Utah

Department of Educational Leadership and Policy

Salt Lake City, Utah

EdD in K12 Leadership and Policy - Administrative Licensure

K12 edd program, university of vermont.

College of Education and Social Services

Burlington, Vermont

Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

Seattle university.

Seattle, Washington

Doctorate in Educational and Organizational Learning and Leadership

University of washington-tacoma campus.

Tacoma, Washington

Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership

Doctoral program in educational leadership - adult education, doctoral program in educational leadership - higher education, doctoral program in educational leadership - nursing education and healthcare leadership, doctoral program in educational leadership - p-12 educators/superintendent credential, doctoral program in educational leadership - public service, washington state university.

Pullman, Washington

EdD in Educational Leadership - Administration

Edd in educational leadership - higher education leadership, edd in educational leadership - teacher leadership.

Top Online PhD Without Dissertation

by Canice Silas

Online PhD without dissertation is a way of pursuing a PhD using work experience that offers a different and unique approach compared to the traditional route. Some exceptional programs even eliminate the need for a lengthy and conventional doctoral dissertation and certain doctorate degrees may not necessarily include a research component.

While a traditional PhD journey usually encompasses five years of extensive research and culminates in a lengthy dissertation, it is crucial to note that there are alternate pathways available that allow individuals to bypass such arduous written requirements, making the pursuit of a PhD a more flexible and customizable experience.

Many students who wish to get a PhD get scared away as a result of the dissertation requirements that unnecessarily prolong the completion time for a PhD . However, with our list of 10 online PhD without dissertations, we have ensured that we touched across all sectors and industries. Be it finance, administration, health, arts or whatever career you wish to pursue, there is an online doctorate that does not require a dissertation for you.

Table of Contents

Why Online PhDs Without Dissertations Are the Future

The process of writing a dissertation showcases one’s academic abilities. A doctoral thesis aims to make a discovery or contribute to human knowledge. However, the pressure to continuously make progress and the fear of making mistakes can be demotivating. The current academic culture values progress over learning experiences. This repetition and fear of failure often lead to dropouts or increased completion time. The system needs a shortcut, such as online PhD programs without dissertations, hence one can say online PhDs without dissertations are the future for the following reasons.

Fast Track to Expertise

Online doctoral programs are designed to help you further specialize in your academic area of career. You can obtain your PhD in your field of Psychology or another field in Counseling. Each doctoral program sets its own curriculum requirements so it is best to research course requirements at several schools to find a program that best fits your career goals. Some online 1-year PhD programs in Europe skip the dissertation and instead require a capstone writing project. This project consists of publishable scholarly articles on a topic in the field of study.

Saves Money and Time

Online PhD study can provide a more cost-effective and time-efficient path to a PhD . Students can work from their own homes on their schedules as opposed to relocating. This means that they can continue in their present employment or seek work whilst studying. The cost of living for a student living away from home can usually be saved.

Work-Life Harmony Redefined

Another reason that many individuals cite for considering online PhD programs without dissertation programs is work-life redefinition. Many students work full-time jobs, have families, or have other obligations that make it difficult to attend traditional PhD programs. Hence with online doctorate studies, they can comfortably attend classes from anywhere without distorting their schedules.

It Focuses on What Matters

These online PhD programs focus on streamlined coursework that equips you with the practical skills and knowledge you need to excel in your chosen field. This means less time spent on theoretical research and more time developing the expertise that will make you a valuable asset in the workforce.

The following can be said to be the benefits of pursuing an online PhD without a dissertation. Now you have more reasons to get an online PhD, let us see the top disciplines where you can earn your doctorate online without a dissertation.

NB: All wage data are obtained as of May 2021, from the US Bureau of Labour Statistics

Accounting PhD programs are primarily designed for those individuals interested in pursuing careers in academic research and teaching, financial management, budget analysis and taxation. The programs provide students with an in-depth knowledge of the accounting discipline and research methodologies through a set of doctoral core courses and a major area of concentration.

Median Wage: $76,570

The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) is a professional doctoral degree intended to prepare graduates for a career in psychology practice and the use of psychotherapeutic methods. Online PsyD programs are structured with coursework. While very similar to the PhD in Psychology, the PsyD is more focused on the clinical aspects of psychology as opposed to research.

Median Wage: $105,310

Computer & ICT

Accredited online PhD programs in Computer and ICT are on the rise. Companies are wising up to the fact that technology is a rapidly expanding field, and many folks in the field have a very theoretical mindset that can be beneficial in realizing larger company goals. When you are trying to find an online PhD program in computer and ICT, keep in mind that this field is quite broad with many viable specializations.

Median Wage: $159,010

Nursing & Healthcare Administration

An online degree can provide a more flexible option for getting your degree in nursing or healthcare, especially if you are working a full-time job and cannot afford to take time off to further your studies. This program can open doors to jobs in higher education, policy-making, and leadership roles in healthcare. In today’s technologically advanced world, a nurse can earn one of these PhDs online without having to break the make or adjust his/her schedule.

Median Wage: $123,780

Public Administration

The public administration specialization provides an understanding of environmental factors and organizational theory in public organizations. The substantial challenges and opportunities offered in the Public and Non-Profit sectors of society have grown larger and more complex. Both senior and mid-level managers as well as entry-level ones seek to gain the knowledge and expertise to understand these challenges and be equipped with the fine skills essential to solve problems and seize opportunities.

Median Wage: $74,000

Public Health

Public health promotes, protects, and improves community health. Specialists solve problems through collaboration, advocating prevention and better quality of life. The specialty combines nursing, medicine, social and behavioural sciences, and physical sciences.

Interested in becoming a public health doctor and obtaining an academic qualification? You can get an online PhD in Public Health as it is one of the top doctorate degrees you can get online without a dissertation.

Median Wage: $99,040

Business Administration

The Doctor of Business Administration offers specializations to meet current trends in industry and business. Students in the DBA program choose to focus their studies on organizational leadership, marketing and innovation, or through a custom-designed option to meet their unique career goals.

Online DBA programs are designed to fit the lifestyle of busy professionals. Coursework, assignments, group projects, and exams are completed on the student’s own time through our engaging and interactive online platform and are supported by faculty with real-world experience. This learning model provides the ultimate in flexibility, convenience, and quality.

Median Wage: $131,710

The online PhD in education is typically geared towards developing the skills required for leadership in an institution, public or private. For this reason, many teachers and other faculty members are pressured into a PhD program even if they have no intention of leaving their current positions. The skills developed in an education PhD program translate highly to other fields such as adult education or curriculum development. Therefore, an online PhD in education can open up many doors to a student seeking a career in various areas.

Median Wage: $98,420

The field of finance is one of the fastest-growing occupations in the business industry today. Enrolling in an online doctoral program in finance will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of advanced finance theory, international and corporate finance, and econometrics. Online PhD programs in finance are offered and enable students to become experts in their field of financial management.

Median Wage: $208,000

A management career is highly credible, with the main objective of achieving goals effectively and efficiently. Obtaining a management degree is advantageous for future career advancement. Many try to pursue a management degree but find it difficult due to job and family commitments. Online PhD programs without a dissertation offer a solution, allowing flexibility in studying.

Median Wage: $179,520

What is a PhD without A Dissertation?

PhD programs without dissertations offer alternative final projects, like capstones or exams, allowing faster completion and potentially a stronger focus on practical applications of your knowledge in the chosen field.

Can I get A PhD Without a Dissertation?

Yes, there are quite simple ways to obtain a PhD without doing a dissertation. Often, this can be done by taking an intensive program of study that is equivalent to a traditional-style PhD. It can also be done on an individual basis, working closely with a supervisor. In essence, this achieves the same thing as a normal PhD.

What is the Quickest and Easiest PhD to Get?

There’s no shortcut to a PhD, but some fields like education or programs with coursework emphasis and alternative final projects might offer a faster track. Remember, a PhD demands dedication; finding a program you’re passionate about is key.

How Fast Can You Get a PhD?

If you have a relevant educational background, you can potentially skip coursework and complete your PhD in 3 years. Most programs require 3-4 years of study. Passing a competency test is usually necessary to skip coursework. Proper preparation can speed up the process.

Which PhD Pays the most?

Highest Paying PhD Degrees With Estimated Pay
Best Paying Non-Academic Careers for PhDs
10 Most Lucrative Doctoral Careers

Can PhD Programs Without Dissertations Be Found Online?

Yes! PhD programs without dissertation obligations can be found online. Most of them are the ones listed above. These programs are often in education and business fields and can be completed in as little as 18 to 24 months.

Can Online PhD Programs Get Funding?

Yes! Some online doctoral students can receive financial assistance through fellowships, assistantships, or scholarships . Explore options to pursue a PhD without a dissertation. Funding availability varies, and completing coursework and exams may be necessary for funding. Contact the division or school to inquire about opportunities.

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Canice Silas

Canice U. Silas is a dedicated scholar who has channeled the last 20 years of his life to various forms of scholastic pursuits. He holds a BSC in Industrial Chemistry and a master's degree in Inorganic Chemistry from the prestigious Imo State University, Owerri. Mr Silas is set to complete his PhD in Inorganic Chemistry within the next six months. Passionate about the classroom from his elementary school days, Mr Silas grabbed the first opportunity that came his way at the Imo State University where he worked as A. A and currently K. O. Mbadiwe University, as a lecturer and as well has been into educational consulting for thousands of students across various tertiary institutions in the world.

I share your level of appreciation for the work you have produced. The visual you have displayed is tasteful, and the content you have written is stylish. However, you seem to be uneasy about the possibility of delivering something that may be viewed as dubious in the near future. I agree that you will be able to address this concern in a timely manner.

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15 Best Online EdD Degrees with No Dissertation Programs

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: May 13, 2024 , Reading time: 30 minutes

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In this article, we will be covering...

A career in education is one of the most rewarding. Often working in school settings across all levels of learning, education professionals thrive in working with students or formulating initiatives beyond the classroom that can positively impact the educational system.

While an entry-level position in the field only requires at least a degree in education or a related field, many decide to solidify their knowledge and skills by pursuing an advanced degree. It is not uncommon to find teachers and other education professionals who enroll in doctoral degree programs.

This necessary step allows them to enhance their credentials and help them achieve higher and more important positions within the academe and related fields.

A Doctor of Education program is an ideal choice for those who want to boost their opportunities to land leadership positions. It also encompasses other aspects of the education profession, such as curriculum development , learning theory, and public policy . Fortunately, many of these doctoral degree programs are fully available online.

Quick audio summary:

Online doctoral programs in education help working professionals pursue their terminal degrees while juggling their personal demands at home and work. These education doctorate degrees aid them in preparation to lead various academic levels, allowing them to take on leadership positions and drive change in the educational system.

Doctor of Education Concentrations

Education leadership.

This specialization provides educators with essential tools integral to their success inside and outside the classroom. As educational leaders , they are expected to lend administrative help to school principals, formulate techniques for classroom teaching, and develop initiatives for other educational professionals.

Students in this program are equipped to lead schools and organizations through conducting, interpreting, and evaluating research and data. They are then expected to diagnose and resolve organizational challenges that affect learning success.

Instructional Design

In this specialization, students are trained to examine the relationship between the design of technology, cultural context, digital media, learning, and social interaction. They are exposed to cognition and design theories while being encouraged to dive deep into them and learn how to apply such theories in their practice.

Students who pursue this major have an opportunity to explore a wide range of career paths, including faculty and teaching, administrative posts, and even government or nonprofit positions.

Learning Design

Those who wish to take on leadership roles in the field of education in relation to the latest theories and technologies may want to consider opting for the Learning Design specialization. This option allows students to prepare for strategic leadership roles in a variety of settings, including classrooms and corporations.

In this program, they are expected to master innovative learning practices in the digital context while ensuring their practical applications to real-world problems in the field of education.

Curriculum and Instruction

Designed for educators and practitioners, the curriculum and instruction specialization is an ideal choice for those whose interests lie in teaching in higher education or spearheading program improvements in various settings, such as education, social service agencies, military organizations, or businesses.

The program emphasizes the importance of identifying the obstacles to effective practice and program improvement by evaluating educational and clinical programs and their effectiveness.

Multicultural Education

This specialization is the best choice for students who wish to gain a better understanding of the diverse contexts within the field of education, including sociocultural, political, economic, and linguistic aspects. They will be able to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills needed in teaching, scholarship, and advocacy.

This program is often grounded in common conceptual areas, including critical social theory and schooling, human rights and social movements, and alternative research paradigms, among others.

Special Education

One of the popular majors in many doctorates in education programs, the special education major , prepares the leadership personnel to serve in public or private schools and other educational environments and services.

Students are expected to develop knowledge and skills in various aspects, including management, leadership, collaboration, administration, supervision, and program evaluation, among many others.

This specialization is integral in preparing quality leaders who can transform the educational landscape for children with exceptional needs. They can advance their careers by taking on the administrator or executive leader position.

Urban Education

This particular specialization prepares aspiring urban school superintendents, central office administrators, and advocacy organization leaders to lead and transform complex educational systems in urban communities and contexts.

While most of the programs focus on urban school challenges, some recognize the interconnectedness of other issues, encompassing state, national, regional, and global scales.

Online EdD Degrees with No Dissertation - fact

What is a Capstone Project?

Talking about doctoral degree programs without dissertation-based final requirements, we’re brought to its alternative, which is t he capstone project . Its usage and popularity vary across countries’ higher education systems, but here in the country, many degrees feature the capstone project as the final requirement, including doctorate degree programs.

It is sometimes known as a Dissertation in Practice or Problem of Practice Project, and in the context of the doctoral degree, a capstone project is like a practical application period, where doctoral students take their learning throughout the program and use these to address a specific set of real-world problems, often from within their respective areas/workplaces.

It is also multifaceted in that students get to apply their coursework together with appropriate research methods in resolving their chosen problems and working together with their mentors; they often have a degree of freedom to tailor their projects as they see fit.

As with online Management doctoral programs, capstone project often results in innovative solutions that most often get adopted long-term in the settings in which they are applied. Given their practical aspect, the results of capstone projects also add to the overall body of knowledge regarding education and can also be replicated in similar contexts elsewhere.

We might compare the capstone project with dissertation research, but it’s certainly not the case that one is better than the other. It’s simply down to the design of the curriculum and the intended outcomes of doctoral programs. The traditional dissertation process aims to come up with original knowledge, which is why we see it in research-focused Ph.D. degree programs.

Capstone Projects are favored in EdD degree programs that prepare their graduates for their forthcoming higher education leadership roles by giving them a venue for the practical application of their learnings.

How an EdD differs from a PhD

As a whole, more people might have heard of a Ph.D.; after all, it is arguably the most common terminal degree across different higher education systems worldwide. EdD degree programs, on the other hand, are less numerous. So how does a Doctor of Education (EdD) differ from a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree?

As a whole, there isn’t a very wide gulf between the two. They possess many similarities, with both being terminal degrees, that is, the highest degree/title that can be awarded to professionals in their fields, similar to Juris Doctor/JDs for lawyers and MDs for doctors.

Both doctoral programs require significant amounts of research, and students are trained accordingly with appropriate research techniques. Both degrees also require a form of published output from students as one of the requirements for graduation, with their output often published in academic journals.

Still, both degrees tend to have stringent and selective admissions processes, as candidates for the degrees are expected to have the potential to give solid contributions to the field’s body of knowledge. Lastly, both degree programs tend to have roughly the same amount of required credits and can be completed within the same amount of years.

The differences between the two doctoral degree programs lie in some key areas. First, the Ph.D. is more of a research-focused doctoral degree program. The Ph.D. also tends to have a more scholarly focus, with graduates often going on to work within academia and take up research-related roles. By their research-focused nature, the Ph.D. has final requirements that are expected to result in original knowledge, i.e., in the form of a doctoral dissertation.

Meanwhile, an EdD/Doctor of Education degree is generally a practice-focused degree, focusing on sharpening students’ skills through the combination of practice and established research methods. There is also an emphasis on honing educational leadership skills that they can apply to various settings and educational systems, whether K-12, higher education, or others.

This practical application is generally centered on a problem/set of problems that have been identified by the student together with their mentors. This is why students’ final requirements are often in the form of capstone projects. As a result of this practice-focused curriculum design, the EdD doctoral program opens a broader range of non-academic roles that graduates can enter into aside from within the educational system, such as leadership positions in government agencies or the private sector.

Top 15 Doctor of Education Online Programs Without Dissertation

Nova southeastern university.

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Aiming to help students move education forward at various levels, Nova Southeastern University offers the online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership degree program. This doctorate degree online helps them solve real-world problems through project-based planning and implementation. They will be taught to formulate innovative ways to improve the school and boost administrative competencies.

Unlike Ph.D. programs that are often research-heavy with their rigorous dissertation process, an education doctorate provides students with a hands-on learning experience. To successfully earn this degree, students need to complete a doctoral capstone project. They can choose among two options, but if they want to do away with the traditional dissertation, then opting for the Strategic Research Project is the best choice.

This degree is one of the online doctoral degree programs that is designed for practicing superintendents, principals, and lead teachers from public and nonpublic K-12 learning institutions. They must have a master’s degree in education or a related field in order to get admitted into the program.

Texas A&M University

Online Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction

Students who wish to specialize in leadership roles within the education system with an emphasis on curriculum development will want to consider earning a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University. Like other online EdD programs, this specialization allows one to complete the coursework at their own pace through a web-based delivery system.

Requiring the completion of 64 credit hours, this degree focuses on three major goals of the program, including leadership, discovery, and application of knowledge. Students are expected to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge in curriculum and instruction, preparing them for new leadership roles within the domains of educational practice. This includes roles in school change and improvement initiatives, professional development, curriculum leadership in schools or districts, and organizational management.

Students wishing to get admitted into the program must have earned a master’s degree and a minimum of five years’ worth of teaching experience.

Vanderbilt University

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Curriculum

Vanderbilt University offers one of the quality online EdD programs under its Department of Leadership, Policy, and Organizations. The Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Curriculum aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice. The online program can take 36 months to complete, designed to accommodate the needs of mid-career K-12 and higher education professionals.

The online format of the program means that working professionals in the field of education can still pursue their doctorate degree without compromising their blossoming careers. Students are equipped with robust knowledge and skills that will help them make a positive impact on education policy and practice. The program accounts for 84 credit hours, 30 of which can be admitted as credit transfers from a prior master’s degree.

As one of the online EdD degrees with no dissertation programs, this doctorate degree culminates in a capstone during the third and final year of study. Students must need to complete a year-long independent research and analytic task within a group project.

Liberty University

Online Doctor of Education in Administration and Supervision – Educational Leadership

Liberty University offers various online doctorate programs in education. Among the options is the Doctor of Education in Administration and Supervision – Educational Leadership. Designed for students who are preparing for licensed school administration, this terminal degree provides studies and training integral to the management of education organizations.

By the end of the program, students are expected to learn all about education law and policies, leadership principles and ethics, and issues and trends in learning technologies. Some of the courses they cover in this online degree program include Educational Leadership and Public Relations, Theories of Educational Leadership, Advanced Learning Theory and Research, and Advanced Education Law, among others.

The degree is specifically designed for licensed educators pursuing endorsements in administration. To be qualified, they must document an active, renewable teaching license and a full-time contractual teaching experience under a license.

Spalding University

Doctorate of Education in Leadership

Spalding University boasts one of the interdisciplinary and dynamic online programs with its Doctor of Education in Leadership degree offer. This program is designed for those who want to earn their terminal degree and take on leadership roles within the school system.

The courses in this program are delivered one at a time, which means one can earn their degree within two years while juggling their personal and professional responsibilities. This degree will help students stand out as exemplary practitioners of ethical organizational leadership. Some of the courses included in the curriculum are Systems Theory and Leadership, Ethical Leadership, and Research Methodology and Problem-Solving.

For admission, students must meet the program requirements, such as a master’s degree from an accredited university and a GPA of 3.0. They must also submit their resume along with two letters of recommendation, a critique of a journal article, and official transcripts from the learning institutions they have previously attended.

Nebraska Methodist College

Online Doctorate in Education and Leadership in Healthcare

The Doctor of Education in Leadership and Healthcare offered by Nebraska Methodist College allows students to accelerate their careers without compromising their pursuit of a terminal degree. The program’s online format allows them to find the right balance between their personal and professional life.

The program curriculum focuses on honing their knowledge and skills in transforming organizational culture through the use of concepts like reflection, relationship building, education, accountability, and organizational awareness.

Instead of an arduous dissertation process, students only need to complete a scholarly doctoral practice project where they can demonstrate the effective application of the theories and concepts to address education and practice issues.

The program can be completed within 24 months if students are enrolled full-time. Part-time students will be able to earn the degree in 36 months.

The University of Mississippi

Online Doctor of Educational Administration

The University of Southern Mississippi offers an online doctor of educational administration with no dissertation requirement. This 54-credit-hour degree can be completed within three years and is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Education Preparation (CAEP).

This program is most suitable for those looking to attain leadership roles in schools, helping them become an effective administrator at a district level. Students will gain real-world experience in solving on-hand issues as they work their way through the program. They will tackle theories of teacher supervision, school budgeting and finance, and educational leadership, among others.

Students can also avail of scholarship opportunities. In fact, the university offers an Online Student Scholarship program that grants first-time, fully online students with $500 for their first semester. The admission process requires a copy of the student’s current educator license with at least three years of teaching experience.

Virginia Commonwealth University

Doctor of Education in Leadership

Virginia Commonwealth University offers a Doctor of Education in Leadership that can be completed entirely online. The 48-credit hour program has a 36-month/3-year completion time frame and is based on a cohort model, which they call a Learning Community. Each Learning Community, in turn, has cohorts that are based around the learning areas:

Higher Education Leadership
K12 Leadership
General Leadership

The program begins each summer and features an action-oriented curriculum design that is anchored on principles of adult learning. The program’s curriculum design is also anchored on the analytical lenses of equity, accountability, and learning theory to facilitate learning through common perspectives. The degree program helps prepare students to become effective leaders in various careers.

While the program is delivered entirely online, students are required to attend a brief 2 to 3-day in-person residency every summer at VCU. This facilitates building relationships within the cohort, and provides students with guidance and support in the program.

As a final requirement, students participate in a 3-semester long collaborative capstone project called a Dissertation in Practice , where they work with a faculty chair and a community-based partner.

East Tennessee State University

Ed.D in Educational Leadership Ed.D in Global Sport Leadership

East Tennessee State University offers two online doctoral degree programs: an Ed.D in Educational Leadership and an Ed.D in Global Sport Leadership. The former has three concentration areas and leads to a dissertation as the final output, while the latter leads to a capstone program as the final requirement.

The Ed.D in Global Sport Leadership is a unique 60-credit hour program and is aimed at preparing students for leadership positions in today’s highly competitive sports industry, whether at the academic or professional levels. The degree program is delivered 100% online and follows a cohort model.

In order to deliver a truly global perspective in sports, the degree program has global study abroad components on top of standard coursework. The degree requires students to attend international sporting events, which ultimately feeds into the final Doctoral Capstone Project.

University of Virginia

Ed.D in Curriculum & Instruction

The University of Virginia offers its Ed.D in Curriculum and Instruction as an online program. It is designed to prepare graduates to be effective practitioner-scholars who excel in localized problem-solving within settings that are focused on the areas of curriculum, instruction, and assessment. The degree program has a minimum of 72 credit hours and follows an asynchronous model.

In a nod to providing a flexible degree program, UVA lets students map out their own personalized academic plans, which adapt to their previous commitments. This highly adaptable and individualized arrangement conceivably lets students fulfill their coursework from anywhere in the world. Likewise, the degree allows up to 24 credits to be transferred in, provided that these were earned at an accredited institution within ten years of admission to the program.

The program’s final Capstone Project consists of 10 credit hours. 6 of these credits are dedicated to Field Study, where students are challenged to perform unpaid fieldwork at an education-related partner organization, addressing a specific Problem of Practice in the process.

Morehead State University

Doctor of Education (Ed.D)

Morehead State University offers its Doctor of Education degree program in a flexible self-paced online format. The program is aimed at preparing students to become practitioner-scholars who can assume multiple roles in educational leadership, all working towards the goal of improving educational attainment.

Morehead State’s Doctor of Education program has a choice of 4 specialization areas, namely Adult and Higher Education , P-12 Administrative Leadership , Educational Technology Leadership , and Exceptional Child Leadership , with all paths amounting to a total of 60 credit hours.

Each Specialization has its own further emphasis area, and while there are a set of emphasis areas pre-planned by faculty, they are meant to be flexible and can be adapted by students accordingly to fit their individual plans, aspirations, and professional interests.

As part of their final requirement, students must complete a doctoral capstone project regardless of their specialization area. This consists of a total of 12 credit hours.

West Texas A&M University

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (Ed.D)

West Texas A&M University offers its Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership as an online program that has a total of 60 credit hours and lasts three years. The program also follows a cohort model and equips students with a skillset of great depth that can enable them to lead any school district of various sizes and locations. Students can also transfer up to 12 credits in the program.

While the program provides excellent leadership preparation for its students, it is designed with two distinct tracks aimed primarily at providing leadership to rural schools. The Doctorate of Educational Leadership track is focused on problems of practice in rural school settings, such as school districts that serve less than 1,000 students (it is noted that this is the case for 50% of school districts across Texas).

The Doctorate of Leadership in Higher Education, meanwhile, is designed for those who have Master’s Degrees in areas other than educational leadership but want to hold administrative positions in a higher education environment or in educational settings that serve rural schools and communities.

Instead of the traditional dissertation, both tracks have a Doctoral Capstone Project as part of their final requirements. Students’ scholarly work throughout the program’s three years is meant to result in an extensive literature review, as well as two publication-ready articles.

Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers a 78-credit hour hybrid Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership program. The program follows a cohort model, and students can attend the program part-time or full-time.

The program has two concentration areas: PK-12 Education, and Higher Education. It features a curriculum design that is geared towards the goal of achieving socially-just transformative leadership in educational settings at the local, state, regional, and national levels. To this end, students take courses on educational leadership, research, and applied practice on top of their chosen specialization areas.

As part of the final requirements, students have a choice of completing either a dissertation or a capstone project in order to target a specific problem of practice that they have identified.

University of Illinois Chicago

Ed.D in Urban Education Leadership

Located in one of the country’s biggest cities, the University of Illinois Chicago offers an EdD in Urban Education Leadership. This nationally recognized program is designed to prepare and develop education leaders, primarily principals, to become effective leaders in urban school settings and work towards significantly improving teaching and learning in this milieu.

The intensive and highly selective program follows a cohort model and consists of a total of 80 credit hours, or 96 credit hours if the Superintendent’s Endorsement is included in the EdD.

The selection preference is on candidates that have exhibited instructional expertise and success in leadership roles, as well as a strong commitment towards improving schools and learning, given the high-need context of the area immediately served by the university.

The program features in-depth coursework that is designed to be immediately applicable and has individual courses that build upon each other. Students in the program likewise get on-the-job coaching throughout their stay in the program, as well as a full year of internship under a mentor-principal.

Wilmington University

Ed.D in Educational Leadership Ed.D in Higher Education Leadership Ed.D in Organizational Leadership, Learning, and Innovation

Wilmington University offers 3 Doctor of Education degree programs that are delivered in a variety of formats. The Ed.D in Educational Leadership (49-51 credit hours) is a hybrid program, while the Ed.D in Higher Education Leadership (51 Credits) and Ed.D in Organizational Leadership, Learning, and Innovation (54 credit hours) are offered in traditional on-campus, hybrid, and fully online formats. All three are also offered in Wilmington University’s FLEX format, which lets students attend classes synchronously online or face-to-face.

The three-degree programs are all designed with the aim of preparing students to effectively take leadership roles in their respective settings, whether they be school districts, higher education, or organizations. Students also get to choose from concentration areas in each degree program and are trained in skillsets that involve practical problem-solving as leaders.

As part of their final requirements, all three degree programs conclude in a doctoral capstone project—also known as an Applied Inquiry Project or a Dissertation in Practice Project—and are primarily focused on applied research aimed at a problem in practice identified by the student together with their advisor.

Typical Career Paths for Doctor of Education Graduates

University president.

Often considered equivalent to a CEO of a major corporation, a university president ’s responsibility extends to overseeing both the academic and administrative operations of an educational institution.

Most of them concentrate on enrollment rates and student GPAs, all the while making sure that the school stays within budget. They are also tasked to set and maintain school policy and to give recommendations for changes and improvement if warranted.

As of 2022, the median annual pay for a top executive is $100,090 . Beyond educational qualifications, becoming a university president draws more from experience in education and administration.

Chief Learning Officer

The role of a chief learning officer in an organization is to take charge of the learning strategy. They are primarily responsible for training employees and making sure they comply with the policies and regulations within the school. This can be done through mentoring and coaching. The chief learning officer also ensures that their workplace standard is met.

The latest statistics say that chief learning officers, also known as training and development managers, can earn a median pay of $120,000 annually .

School Superintendent

As a school superintendent, one makes sure that the daily operations and long-range planning of a school district are running smoothly. They serve as the point person for all district matters. It is their job to supervise school principals and district staff. They are also known to work with school board members and manage fiscal operations.

Sometimes, school superintendents also need to hire staff, solve problems, and lobby for resources. To become one, a superintendent must first gain ample experience in teaching in the classroom and serve as a school principal.

A master’s degree is needed to enter this position, but a doctorate degree can amplify their chances of landing the role.

Policy Maker

In educational institutions, a policymaker plays a critical role in ensuring that policies at all levels, from local and state to federal, are done with a systemic approach. They tend to focus on different things, depending on the priorities of the educational institution.

Some focus on reducing student absenteeism. Ultimately, policymakers decide the policies that will lead to positive changes that can impact the next generation.

As policymakers, one should have analytical skills and hefty expertise on important subject matters. At the very least, they should have a solid understanding of the complex issues in education, public policy, and legislation.

School Principal

Principals are integral to the smooth higher-level operations in a school. It is their responsibility to create safe learning environments for students and to set the goals that students and teachers should meet. They also make sure that school facilities are safe and protected, often planning regular maintenance of school grounds and equipment.

Beyond the obvious duties, they are also helping shape a vision of academic success for their students. They make sure to cultivate leadership in their teachers and other staff. According to BLS, school principals can get a median annual pay of $103,460 .

College Provost

Often considered postsecondary education administrators , provosts serve as academic chairs or heads of a college department or faculty. They usually report directly to the college or university president. While this position is exciting, it also comes with great responsibilities. Their duties include implementing academic priorities for the university. They make sure that there is a clear direction for the curricula and allocate resources to support initiatives.

Provosts work with department heads, academic deans, faculty, and staff. They often aim to ensure that students will receive a quality education. Annually, they can earn a median pay of $99,940 .

Curriculum Director

Hired by the school board, a curriculum director sets out an effective educational program in place to help students realize their learning potential. They often work closely with teachers when implementing and overseeing a high-standard curriculum. They make sure to provide solutions and initiatives that can meet the unique challenges of a particular school board.

Curriculum directors are expected to be good at planning and evaluating as well as developing a team. Their work also involves developing instructional materials and assessing their effectiveness. Every year, their median pay is around $66,490 .

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take to finish an online edd program.

The answer will often depend on whether students are earning the program full-time or part-time. It also depends on the term starts available in a higher learning institution.

Typically, a Doctor of Education program will take two to three to complete. For schools with multiple term starts and accelerated program options, the duration can be significantly cut. Other factors that can affect the program duration also include specializations and transfer credit policies.

Students enrolled on a part-time basis will understandably take longer to earn this terminal degree. Working professionals who go through the coursework at their own pace may take four to seven years to complete the program.

Is an online EdD degree worth pursuing?

The Doctor of Education program is offered as an alternative to a Doctor of Philosophy in Education, which is heavier on research. An Ed.D. program is more of a practitioner’s degree, making it a suitable choice for academic researchers and college professors. Those who work in K-12 schools or pursue a position as college administrators will find this degree quite useful.

A doctorate in education can help grow one’s skillset and boost one’s earning potential. It is especially valuable if they are aiming to attain positions in education and educational administration. This includes job positions such as education administrators, superintendents, provosts, academic deans, and so much more.

What are the most common admission requirements to an EdD program?

The admission requirements to a doctor of education degree program may vary from university to university.

Generally, one is required to hold a master’s degree from an accredited institution. They must also have demonstrated experience in educational roles along with leadership potential. Other requirements may include the following:

Graduate admission application
Official transcripts from undergraduate and graduate institutions
Resume or curriculum vitae
Personal statement
Letters of recommendation

What are the common requirements for admission into online EdD programs?

As is the standard with all graduate degrees, applicants to EdD programs are expected to have passed GPA standards, typically around 2.75 or 3 as a minimum. It varies between universities, but some may also require GRE / GMAT /MAT scores.

To prove that applicants have completed both the required Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees , they are required official transcripts, and most universities will prefer degrees awarded by institutions that have regional accreditation.

As previously mentioned, EdDs tend to have a degree of selectiveness and stringency that is typical of doctorate degrees. Universities tend to require applicants to have verifiable references and recommendation letters aside from a CV/Résumé.

Most importantly, in order to assess the capability of students to convey their ideas and conduct rigorous academic work, a personal essay from the applicant is typically required, which is complemented by interviews done by university faculty.

As a final note, this is not necessarily a university requirement, but it is a general rule that students enrolling in doctoral degree programs should already have a well-formed seed of an idea or problem they would like to pursue. That way, they would be better able to fit their forthcoming degree plans accordingly, and their mentors would be able to help them better.

Any lack of pre-existing ideas/research problems would be detected in students’ personal essays and subsequent interviews. As they say, never go to battle unprepared, and this is especially true with doctorate degrees.

How much do online EdD programs cost?

There is a wide variance between universities in terms of the total cost of their degrees. They each have their own set of fees that support the university on top of the cost of the degree itself, and some may have different rates for out-of-state students.

To get a rough sense of part of the costs involved, per-credit-hour costs for online EdD programs can range between $600-$1000, and they can have a total of a little more or less than 60 credit hours. To get the most exact costs for tuition, it is best to reach out to the universities themselves, as they will have dedicated personnel that assist students with concerns regarding how to finance degree programs.

However, graduate degrees and terminal degrees, such as online doctorate programs, tend to be on the more expensive side of the tuition costs scale. There are, however, several ways students can offset these costs aside from loans .

Federal financial aid is always available, even for graduate students, and students may be able to access grants. It differs between universities, but most will have some form of Scholarship that eligible students can access. Lastly, this may be more toward on-campus students, but Graduate Assistantships are also an option.

What are the benefits of earning a doctorate degree online?

It will invariably require the student to invest in time, effort, and finances, but being a terminal degree, a doctorate degree represents the peak of a professional’s career advancement and educational achievement.

A doctorate degree signifies that one has contributed (and continues to contribute) original knowledge through research, which ultimately benefits the discipline they belong to. On a more practical note, the learnings one gets from the courses in a doctorate degree and the opportunity to apply these are invaluable to students who, by this point, are already working professionals.

Meanwhile, earning a doctorate degree online has the distinct benefit of giving students more flexibility to balance their careers and their coursework. There may also be savings for students since they do not have to attend classes in person. Still, for some, enrolling in an on-campus doctorate degree that they like or that fits them might involve having to move into a new city, which can be a great cost.

Granted, on-campus/in-person classes have aspects that are very hard, if not impossible, to replicate in online classes, but the latter does bring its own set of benefits and advantages.

Key Takeaways

As alternatives to dissertation research, the capstone research project provides venues for doctoral students to provide real-world practical solutions to problems in areas or fields that they believe must be addressed. The practical focus of a doctoral research project is what makes them a good fit for the desired outcomes in Doctor of Education programs.

Like most doctoral degree programs, Doctor of Education degrees have concentration areas. These online Ph.D. programs add specialized courses on top of a degree’s core course content, translating to crucial skills and insights that students can apply to their professional milieu.

Ph.D. Degrees are generally orientated toward research-focused roles within academia and require dissertation research as their final requirement.

EdD degrees, meanwhile, have an added applicability toward taking leadership roles; hence they are often designed with capstone projects that enable online doctoral students to apply their knowledge to solve issues relevant to their field.

Additional Resources:

The Best Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) Graduate Schools
The Best Online Doctor of Educational Psychology Degree Programs
The Best Online Doctor of Counseling Education and Supervision Degrees

student earning a 10-month online masters degree

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Graduate School

PhD Without Dissertation or Thesis

Featured Expert: Dr. Gurmeet Lall, PhD

Final doctoral projects can be intimidating or time-consuming, which is why many students look for a PhD without dissertation. What they soon discover while learning how to find a PhD topic is that the Doctor of Philosophy degree itself is heavily tied to research capabilities and publishing scholarship. As a result, it is very difficult to find PhD programs specifically that have no dissertation requirement. However, other doctoral degrees in various fields do exist and can be granted from programs without a traditional dissertation or thesis defense process.

This article lists the kinds of doctorate-level programs that do not have traditional dissertation requirements necessary for completion. We also cover what are the reasons a doctorate program without dissertation may or may not be beneficial for students, and how grad school application help can be used to make the decision.

Disclaimer: Please note: although we have made every effort to provide the most accurate information, admissions information changes frequently. Therefore, we encourage you to verify these details with the official university admissions office. You are responsible for your own results. BeMo does not endorse nor affiliate with any official universities, colleges, or test administrators and vice versa.

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Article Contents 9 min read

Examples of doctorate programs without dissertation.

Note: This is not an exhaustive list. These examples are simply meant to highlight the various types of doctorate programs that are available and how they address the lack of a traditional dissertation to complete their program.

1. Education & Leadership in Healthcare Online Doctorate at Nebraska Methodist College

This virtual option from Nebraska Methodist College does not require any formal dissertation nor the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Instead, students in this full-time 24-month (or 36-month, part-time) program must complete a Doctoral Capstone Project. The final submission is a translational research project that explores a question within a field relevant to the program that is meant to align with your career goals.

2. EdD Program in Educational Leadership at Nova Southeastern University

This on-campus program in Fort Lauderdale, Florida offers two Capstone options for completing your education. One is an applied dissertation and the other is a Strategic Research Project (SRP). Both options are meant to prepare graduates for educational leadership. Career paths after this degree include school superintendent, professor of education, and education consulting, among others.

3. Online Doctor of Business Administration at Liberty University

In this 100% online program, students can choose from various specialized paths to further their education of management in the corporate world. Through mentorship from respected business professionals, you will learn the skills to advance your career. No dissertation is required for completion of this DBA program.

4. Transitional Doctorate in Physical Therapy at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Medicine

At one of the top medical schools in North Carolina , this transitional DPT program with web-based instruction is for licensed physical therapists who wish to continue practicing while pursuing this degree. It is only offered on a part-time schedule over 2 years and requires the completion of 27 credits of approved coursework. There is no final or dissertation project.

As you see from the list above, it is very uncommon for a PhD program to not have a dissertation or thesis at the end of it. Programs labelled with the Doctor of Philosophy moniker tend to be based in research, which lend themselves to the student completing a final cumulative research project such as a dissertation. When you answer, “Why do you want to a PhD?” , your answer will typically involve specific research interests you wish to pursue. If you want to pursue a PhD but do not want to complete a dissertation, you may want to explore other viable education options. PhDs and research are inherently linked, so it is difficult to find PhD programs specifically that do not require any form of dissertation.

Instead, what you will likely find is that there are various other degrees, such as a Doctor of Education, that do not require a formal dissertation. In these cases, a traditional thesis is replaced by another form of cumulative project or work experience. In some cases, there could be no final project at all. These are still not common but are more likely to appear in your search results. Deciding what path you would like to pursue will come once you figure out your plans for how to find a job after grad school . The eventual career you are aiming for may impact your ultimate decision to enroll in a doctorate program without a dissertation to complete. Here are some of the pros and cons of these rare kinds of programs:

No Thesis Responsibility. One of the main pros of a doctorate degree without dissertation is that you will not have to learn how to prepare for a thesis defense . While some other capstone project or culminating experience may be required, you may not necessarily need to defend your research in front of professors or other faculty. Preparing for a thesis defense can be one of the most nerve-wracking parts of your PhD. After having done all the research over the last year or so and written a document that could be hundreds of pages long, justifying your work puts a lot of pressure on your shoulders. Having no dissertation at all will waive this requirement and prevent you from having to review any thesis defense questions .
No Limitations. Doctoral programs without a dissertation can also be more flexible in nature. They could be delivered online, for instance, so you do not need to be living in the same city as your university to successfully complete your degree. That is a huge advantage for those who are employed or cannot afford the travel expenses. It allows higher education degrees to become more accessible overall. Depending on the requirements of the program and the department offering it, these types of programs can become some of the easiest PhD programs to get into due to their open access.
No Wasted Time. These types of degrees may also take less time to complete since there is no long dissertation to complete beforehand. You will need to spend less time finding thesis writing services , working on the project with your supervisor, and can focus on coursework or other commitments instead. It is no secret that graduate students have a lot on their plate. Working on a dissertation can make a PhD a very singular and lonely experience, so having the option to opt out of it may be very beneficial for the education and well-being of many students.
No Unnecessary Research. If you are planning to figure out how to transition from academia to industry , a doctorate degree without dissertation may be worth it for you. The research required for lends itself to academic jobs, meaning that jobs in industry are less likely to see as much value in a complex research project. When a career in industry is of interest to you, you may to consider alternative doctoral programs that better suit your interests. Whatever field you are interested in, getting professional experience at the end of a PhD may be more beneficial to you than a dissertation will.
Career Preparation. Those that wish to learn how to find a job in academia know that it can be competitive and difficult, even if you have a doctorate degree. It is never guaranteed that you will find a stable position at a college or university after graduation. Getting a role with tenure or finding the right amount of teaching experience is not the simplest of tasks, which can lead to a lot of uncertainty and doubt in PhD students. Resolving those worries starts with getting as much research possible. Being aware of how to publish as a graduate student is key, but your dissertation is also a great way to indicate that you have what it takes to succeed in a career in academia from a research perspective. If you need to find a postdoc position or hope to continue working as a professor, completing a dissertation during your PhD will be a step in the right direction.
Skill Recognition. A program without a dissertation may not be the best representation of your skills or abilities. They are often very specific or only benefit a particular subset of students/professionals already working in the field. In contrast, PhD programs with a dissertation can lend themselves more to what you are good at if you are a talented writer and researcher or do not meet the criteria for a more specified program. If this is the case, traditional research programs might be more appealing to you. An internship or another type of project may not be the most ideal reflection of how you can contribute to a future career. Therefore, a doctorate degree without a dissertation may be too much of a jump away from your goals.
Negative Reputation. Due to a doctorate degree with no dissertation being a more modern concept, it may also be seen as of lower value than a traditional research PhDs in a variety of industries as well as academic settings. As these programs are more likely to be fully online, this may give them a bad rap as well. Changes to the traditional format of academic study may require additional explanation to employers and could result in lower job prospects. As always, this will certainly depend on what field you are entering, but not completing a dissertation can potentially sour your CV in the eyes of those who are hiring.
Restrictive Matriculation. As much as graduate programs without a dissertation may be flexible, they are also restrictive in other ways. While online programs can be extremely convenient for some students, others simply do not learn the best in that environment. Virtual delivery of courses can be one of the best graduate school recruitment strategies , but can also alienate other types of students and deter them from applying. The majority of these doctorate programs are completely online or require you to already be a working professional, which might not be the case for some of those.

Conclusion

The higher education landscape is ever-changing. What is necessary to access the highest level of learning possible constantly shifts as the years go by. With online programs, you have more options than ever before when considering the ways to achieve a valuable education that will lead to a fulfilling career. When evaluating should you pursue a master’s or a PhD , really get down to the reason why you are completing a graduate degree. Search different universities and programs to see what is out there for you. An informed decision is always the smartest one, so it is important to become very familiar with the choices available early on.

Speaking with PhD consultants can also be helpful for your applications or for determining what is the right program that will serve you best based on your individual goals. Depending on your discipline and interests, a dissertation (or a graduate program, in general) may not always be necessary to achieve your dream. Ideally, you will want your eventual program to match with your grad school career goals statement and get you the best shot at securing your future plans. It is up to you with regards to how you get there.

PhD programs in particular are meant to prove your suitability for the field you are pursuing. With the degree, you are expected to be a working academic with the expectation of contributing to current scholarship in some way. This means that you have to be able to present forward-thinking research and fill gaps in contemporary publications. The dissertation or thesis is a culmination of your graduate school research displayed in one final project that you must defend.

While you may have another form of final project, not having to write a long dissertation or prepare for a thesis defense will be a plus for a lot of applicants. They can also be fully delivered online and be more accessible to students living in another place. These types of programs seem to suit more industry jobs rather than other careers in academia, which may be appealing to applicants who wish to transition to industry.

The programs that do not require a dissertation may be seen as less valuable than ones that do, depending on the discipline. The online format most of the programs entail may be a benefit for others, but a detriment to others. A doctorate degree can also be not as useful for students who wish to continue working in academic settings, where research experience is crucial.

Some of the most common doctoral degrees you will find that do not require a PhD are Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and other doctorates related to public health domains.

Many programs will still have a final submission or capstone project as part of their curriculum that does not need the same amount of research effort as a formal dissertation. They may also need to complete for some of field experience that illustrates their capabilities for working within the discipline chosen. For instance,

Most of the time, you do not need a master’s or PhD to apply to medical school . If you meet the other academic requirements such as high MCAT and GPA scores, a graduate degree will not necessarily boost your chances. If you were to complete a master’s or doctorate-level degree, you will likely need to have research experience regardless, so choosing a program with a thesis or dissertation will probably be more beneficial to you in the long run.

Academic positions are more focused on teaching and research in a higher education setting. They could be listed as on the tenure-track, which leads to permanent employment, or the non-tenure-track, which does not guarantee permanent employment. Industry jobs tend to work outside of universities and are based within enterprises and other for-profit companies. Many PhDs and other doctoral-level graduates can work in either the academic or industry setting, depending on their interests or job prospects in the field.

Seeking professional help from a grad school admissions consultant can improve all aspects of your application. They are typically trained experts who are very knowledgeable about competitive academic programs at the graduate level. They can assist with writing or editing graduate school statement of purpose , conduct interview simulations, situational judgment test preparation, and more. If you are struggling with deciding between a dissertation and non-dissertation doctoral programs, consultants can point you in the right direction that aligns with your goals.

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Is it possible for someone to get into a PhD without a thesis in Masters-level?

Is it possible for someone to get into a Ph.D. without a thesis at Masters-level?

If someone doesn't have a thesis at his Masters-level, what other criteria can he fill in order to approach a potential supervisor?

To clarify: do you have a Master's degree that did not involve writing a Master's Thesis? Or do you not have a Master's degree? – wimi Commented Jan 2, 2020 at 7:46
2 I got a Ph.D. without a thesis at Masters-level, if by this you mean either without obtaining a Masters or by obtaining a Masters without writing a thesis. I did the latter, which for me involved an oral exam, but many in the U.S. don't bother with a Masters first. In the U.S., at least in mathematics, one simply applies to and gets accepted to a graduate program after undergraduate, takes courses and passes the qualifying exam to be admitted to candidacy, then writes an acceptable dissertation. However, the rules for something like this will vary with country (and, of course, the university). – Dave L Renfro Commented Jan 2, 2020 at 7:48

4 Answers 4

I assume that you have a Master's degree but not a Master's Thesis. The answer to your question depends on the location.

In the UK and the US , a Master's degree is not a requirement to start PhD studies, and therefore a Master's Thesis is also not a requirement. The admissions committee will compare your achievements with those of other students who only have a Bachelor's degree, and the expectations in terms of research output and thesis writing will correspond to that level.

In other locations, such as Germany , starting doctoral studies without a Master's degree is possible but very rare (unfortunately, the link is in German, but it says that only 1300 out of 108000 doctoral students that started on the winter semester 2011/2012 had no Master's degree).

The traditional way of starting doctoral studies in Germany is to contact a professor directly, and be selected by the professor, without the participation of any admissions committee. Professors will generally expect a Master's degree, and will want to have access to some of your research output to see how good your research is. They will by default look at your Master's Thesis for this, but you might be able to also get selected without a Master's Thesis if you have enough research output (publications or written reports of research projects).

There are also structured doctoral programs in Germany. These function in a similar way to PhD programs in the US/UK (with admissions committee and more course work), and are more likely to accept students without a Master's degree or thesis. These programs are, however, much less common than "traditional" doctoral studies as per the previous paragraph, so you might have a hard time finding one that interests you.

Maybe to add to that, because it’s not 100% clear from the question whether you’re simply not yet finished with your Masters: I was admitted to and enrolled into a PhD programme a few months before I defended my thesis and obtained my degree. This took place in a central European country with a very similar university system as Germany. – christoph Commented Jun 5, 2020 at 11:09
As a data point to add to @wimi's excellent answer, I am a PhD student at a large US research institution, and I did not have a master's degree beforehand. – ComputerScientist Commented Jun 5, 2020 at 21:44
To add to this, at least at some universities in Germany also a Master's Thesis is required. – user151413 Commented Dec 29, 2020 at 23:23

I have advised PhD students who had a masters when they started their doctoral studies, and others who didn't. I did not have a masters when I started my PhD. As noted in another answer, in some countries, having a masters is not required to start doctoral studies. This is, for example, also the case in Hong Kong.

what other criteria can [a prospective candidate] fill in order to approach a potential supervisor?

As an advisor, I would like to see a prospective doctoral student demonstrate ability to work independently. One of the principle differences between undergraduate and doctoral studies will be the expectation to perform independent research; many candidates fresh out of a bachelors degree may have never undertaken more substantial research than writing a term paper. A few examples of independent work could be:

an undergraduate honors thesis or "capstone" project
an engineering or software product
an invention
a community service project involving organization of meetings/town halls, etc. and/or interviews (could be especially desirable for students in the social sciences)
an internship that led to a product (such as a company internal report)

When prospective graduate students without a masters degree approach me about starting doctoral studies, I generally recommend a graduate school path that allows the student to acquire a masters during the course of study. Such an option may provide a graceful "bail-out" option for both the student and advisor, for example if the student discovers after a year or two that research is not for her/him. I realize that such an arrangement is not an option in all countries.

You can still pursue a PhD after doing a non-thesis master's degree. Contrary to popular belief, the thesis master's degree is not the only path to doctoral studies and the world of academia. Although there are a few exceptions, you can enrol in many PhD programs after completing a non-thesis master's degree.

In India, it used to be the case that you can join a PhD with a master degree. It is not necessary to have a masters that requires writing a thesis. E.g., A MCA(master in computer application) (where writing a thesis is NOT part of the course) degree holder can join PhD in computer science. It is not necessary to have a MTech (where writing a thesis is usually part of the course). Now it is also possible to join PhD even with a BTech degree(Again, where writing a thesis is NOT part of the course).

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What’s really behind the flap over jill biden’s doctorate.

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It's unfair to attack Jill Biden for using the honorific "Dr.," but there is reason to criticize the ... [+] field of education for a general lack of attention to science. (Photo by DNCC via Getty Images) (Photo by Handout/DNCC via Getty Images)

Criticism of Jill Biden for using the honorific “Dr.” has been snide and unfair, but it isn’t just misogyny. It also reflects longstanding disdain for the discipline in which Biden earned her doctorate: education.

A recent op-ed in the Wall Street Journal took the prospective first lady to task for preferring to be addressed as “Dr.” The op-ed has been roundly criticized , primarily for being—as one letter to the editor with 330 signatures put it—“outrageously sexist.”

To be sure, the op-ed was patronizing in a way that makes it hard to imagine it having been written about a man. The author, Joseph Epstein—an 83-year-old who has long reveled in political incorrectness, including swipes at feminism—addressed Biden as “kiddo.” It’s unlikely he would have used that term in connection with, say, future “second gentleman” Doug Emhoff . But the overall thrust of the piece was not so much anti-female as anti what Epstein sees as academic pretentiousness.

According to Epstein, only medical doctors should be addressed as “Dr.” (He’s not alone: standard AP Style urges caution about using “Dr.” for those with non-medical doctorates, to avoid confusion.) Maybe things were different in the old days, Epstein writes, when oral exams were so rigorous that “a secretary sat outside the room” with “a pitcher of water and a glass” in case the doctoral candidate fainted. Even now, he suggests, people with doctorates in the hard sciences—physics, chemistry, and the like—are entitled to use “Dr.,” but not those in the humanities and social sciences. And he notes that Biden’s doctorate is merely an Ed.D—a doctorate in education, not a Ph.D.—obtained via a dissertation with what he calls an “unpromising” title: “Student Retention at the Community College: Meeting Students’ Needs.”

Given the high dropout rate in community colleges, it’s not clear why such a title is “unpromising.” More likely, Epstein assumed that Biden’s research was lacking in rigor. That assumption has been made explicit—and nastier—by right-wing commentators. One has called the Ed.D. “something of a joke in the academic world,” and a degree that “only deeply unimpressive people feel confers the honorific of ‘Doctor.’” They have combed Biden’s dissertation for typos and errors, declaring it “barely fit for a middle-school Social Studies classroom” and of a quality that “wouldn’t be tolerated in a high-school paper.”

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These attacks are hugely unfair. Biden’s dissertation is 137 pages long, with 80 pages of text plus references and appendices. It’s based not only on her reading of academic sources but also on surveys she designed and administered to community college students, faculty, and guidance counselors and interviews she conducted. It has some sound, specific recommendations—for example, to teach writing in all classes, not just English. Yes, there are typos and a few infelicitous phrases, but compared to a lot of academic writing, it’s admirably clear.

At the same time, the dissertation—also referred to as an “executive position paper”—is not particularly scientific. It doesn’t present a hypothesis that can be proven or disproven, it wasn’t designed in a way that makes it possible for others to test out its conclusions by replicating it, and it certainly wasn’t a randomized controlled trial —an experiment in which one group is given a “treatment” (e.g., writing instruction in all classes) that another similar group didn’t get.

But that’s not an argument against the validity of Biden’s research in particular. It reflects a general difference between standards for research in education and those found in other fields—including some of the “softer” sciences like psychology—that adhere to what is called the scientific method .

Research in education has generally differed from that in other academic areas, partly because many professors of education have valued ideology as much as evidence—or sometimes more. Professors of education have been heard to dismiss the mountain of evidence in support of teaching phonics as “your science, not my science,” as though science were a belief system.

It doesn’t help that schools of education are largely cut off from —and often scorned by —the rest of academia. In recent decades, there have been significant advances in the science of learning, but prospective teachers don’t become acquainted with them during their training. Research professors at schools of education may be familiar with those findings, but the instructors who train teachers are generally unaware of them —and certainly aren’t incorporating them into their research.

There’s surely a place for the kind of research reflected in Biden’s dissertation—case studies rather than large-scale experiments—but it’s distressing that education research, and teacher training in general, isn’t more grounded in science. If it were, it could make K-12 teachers’ jobs a lot easier—and Biden’s job as a community college English instructor easier as well.

One of the recurring themes in Biden’s dissertation is that students arrive in college unprepared for college-level work. In addition to devoting more attention to writing, she calls for a “study skills program” that might focus on things like test-taking and “finding the main idea.” But one reason so many college students arrive unprepared is the assumption in K-12 schools that these kinds of “skills” are what education should prioritize over specific knowledge. Relying on their training, teachers are likely to believe that teachers should avoid explicit instruction as much as possible, and that there’s no point in ensuring students learn facts when they can just Google them. Both of these assumptions are contradicted by scientific evidence .

Rather than being derided for claiming an honorific she spent 15 years earning, Jill Biden should be celebrated for her dedication to some of our neediest students. She should be applauded for returning to teaching English at Northern Virginia Community College even after she becomes first lady. And instead of wasting any more energy debating whether she should be addressed as “Dr.,” let’s focus on what we can do to make teaching easier for teachers like her—and learning easier for students.

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12 Accredited Universities that don’t Require a Thesis for Online Masters Program 5

All Master’s degree students must complete coursework associated with graduate-level content in their areas of study which included both thesis and non-thesis options.

Students seeking a thesis are entrusted with a research project being proposed, conducted, summarized, and defended. Non-thesis students, however, complete all program-required coursework and may even have to complete an exit exam to demonstrate mastery of material within the discipline. The thesis alternative has more study in general, while the non-thesis has more classes.

Usually, students prefer to complete their Online Master’s degree with a non-thesis option because of the following reasons.

Non-thesis online master’s degree takes less time to complete as they don’t require a significant written product
Students can find their time in taking more classes and gain hands-on skills to fill the time than in researching and writing a thesis.
The non-thesis option allows students to complete classes and take exams without research or writing.
A large amount of coursework that will include material and specialized skills that are relevant to technical and workforce demands will be included in the non-thesis degree program.
For working professionals who don’t have the time and money to undertake multi-semester study, the non-thesis choice is best.

Which are the Accredited Universities offer the Online Masters Program with a Non-thesis option?

Master of agricultural and life sciences online master’s degree at the virginia polytechnic institute and state university.

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is a public university located in Richmond, Virginia. It is ranked as #71 in Best National University and #35 in Kiplinger.

The Master of Agricultural and Life Sciences online master’s degree program provides students a broad, professional, graduate degree for persons whose interests lie in the agricultural and life science industries, governmental agencies serving agriculture, cooperative extension, and agricultural education

The Online Masters in Agricultural and Life Sciences offered by Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University doesn’t require a Thesis.

Online master of science in food science at the university of illinois at chicago.

The University of Illinois at Chicago is a public university located in Springfield, Illinois. It is ranked as #127 in Best National University.

The Master of Science online degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition provides the students an option that makes the program accessible to working professionals and students in various locations.

The Online Masters in Food Science and Human Nutrition offered by the University of Illinois at Chicago doesn’t require a Thesis.

Department of agronomy and horticulture online program at the university of nebraska–lincoln.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a public university located in Lincoln, Nebraska. It is ranked as #99 in Best National University and #64 in Kiplinger.

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln Department of Agronomy and Horticulture Online Program is a high-quality educational experience that focuses on many different impact areas of agronomic and horticultural research, including crop physiology and production, plant breeding and genetics, and range and forage sciences.

The Online Masters in Agronomy and Horticulture offered by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln doesn’t require a Thesis.

Online master of horticultural science at north carolina state university at raleigh.

North Carolina State University at Raleigh is a public university located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is ranked as #95 in Best National University.

The Master of Horticultural Science (MHS) online degree provides students with an in-depth understanding of horticulture science and practices.

The North Carolina State University at Raleigh offers a non-thesis, online degree program in Master of Horticultural Science.

Online master of computer science at rice university.

Rice University is a private university located in Austin, Texas. It is ranked as #19 in Best National University.

The Master of Computer Science (MCS) online degree program will help the students to design and implement complex software systems. With this degree, students will demonstrate skill in their design and implementation and function effectively in teams.

The Online Master of Computer Science degree offered by Rice University is a non-thesis master’s degree.

Online master of computer science at the university of illinois at chicago.

The Online MCS is a 100% online degree offered through the Coursera MOOC platform that requires 32 credit hours of coursework. Students receive lectures through the Coursera platform, but are advised and assessed by Illinois faculty and teaching assistants on a rigorous set of assignments, projects, and exams required for university degree credit.

The Online Master of Computer Science degree offered by the University of Illinois at Chicago doesn’t require a Thesis.

Online master of computer science and software engineering at auburn university.

Auburn University is a public university located in Montgomery, Alabama. It is ranked as #103 in Best National University and #82 in Kiplinger.

The Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering offers the Master of Science distance program with a minimum of 33 graduate semester credit hours. All courses in the degree must be taken for a grade.

The Online Master of Computer Science and Software Engineering degree offered by Auburn University doesn’t require a Thesis.

Online master of computer science at arizona state university.

Arizona State University-Tempe is a public university located in Phoenix, Arizona. It is ranked as #127 in Best National University and #92 in Kiplinger.

The Online Master of Computer Science (MCS) program helps the students to gain a deep understanding of advanced topics like AI, cybersecurity, and big data while strengthening their new skill set through real-world projects.

The Arizona State University’s Master of Computer Science online degree program is a non-thesis degree that requires 30 credit hours of coursework.

Online master’s in computer science at purdue university.

Purdue University-Main Campus is a public university located in Indianapolis, Indiana. It is ranked as #62 in Best National University and #52 in Kiplinger.

The online master’s program in computer science is created for professionals who wish to build a competitive edge in a wide variety of industries. This program will focus heavily on computer science and computational topics and technical knowledge.

The online master’s program in computer science offered by Purdue University offer students both thesis and non-thesis options.

Online master of science in computer engineering north carolina state university at raleigh.

The Online Master of Science in Computer Engineering strengths students in programs that include networking, VLSI systems, and computer architecture and systems.

The Online Master of Science in Computer Engineering offered by North Carolina State University at Raleigh does not require a thesis, oral exam, or on-campus residency.

Online master of professional studies in survey and data science at the university of maryland.

The University of Maryland-College Park is a public university located in Annapolis, Maryland. It is ranked as #62 in Best National University and #14 in Kiplinger.

The online Master of Professional Studies in Survey and Data Science helps the students to broaden their knowledge and understanding of the emerging field of data science, the conduct of sample surveys, practical applications of data analysis and survey methodology, and data management, along with the skills needed to communicate results.

The online Master of Professional Studies in Survey and Data Science offered by the University of Maryland does not require a Thesis.

Online master of computer science in data science at the university of illinois urbana – champaign.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a public university located in Springfield, Illinois. It is ranked as #42 in Best National University and #22 in Kiplinger.

The Online Master of Computer Science in Data Science is a program of study that leads to the MCS degree using courses that focus on data science. Students receive lectures through Coursera’s massive open online course (MOOC) platform.

The Online Master of Computer Science in Data Science offered by the University of Illinois, Urbana – Champaign offers a non-thesis program.

Search for accredited universities offering online masters program in the united states., search for accredited universities offering online masters no gre programs in the united states..

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Choosing Between a Thesis or Non-thesis Master's Degree

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Resources Choosing Between a Thesis or Non-thesis Master's Degree

As of 2015, approximately 25.4 million Americans held advanced degrees , with more citizens joining these ranks each year. As studies continue to show the career advancement and salary benefits of completing a master's degree, more and more students elect to pursue advanced educations. When considering their options, many question whether to enroll in a master's requiring a thesis or not. The following guide examines some of the reasons degree seekers may want to write a thesis while also highlighting why they might not. Students on the fence about this important decision can find expert advice, actionable tips, and relevant guidance to help them make an informed choice in the guide that follows.

Understanding the Master's Thesis

What is the difference between a thesis & non-thesis master's program, the decision not to do a thesis.

As students research various master's programs in their chosen discipline, it's common to find that many degrees require a thesis – especially if they want to enter a research-heavy field. While this word gets thrown around a lot in academia, some learners may want more information regarding what it entails in order to make an informed decision.

What is a Master's Thesis?

The master's thesis is an original piece of scholarship allowing the student to dig into a topic and produce an expanded document that demonstrates how their knowledge has grown throughout the degree program. These documents require significant independent research of primary and secondary sources and, depending on the subject, may require interviews and/or surveys to support the overarching argument.

Individual schools and departments dictate the length of these documents, but they typically range between 60 and 100 pages – or approximately 20,000 to 40,000 words. While tackling a document of such heft may seem overwhelming at first, learners need not fret. Each master's candidate receives a faculty advisor early in their tenure to provide support, feedback, and guidance throughout the process. Because the final thesis is expected to be of a publishable quality, learners seeking the highest marks typically send their supervisor excerpts of the document as they write to ensure they are on the right track.

When picking a thesis topic, no magical formula exists. Students should consider their interests and read extensively on that topic to get a better sense of existing scholarship. They should also speak to other academics working in that sphere to familiarize themselves with ongoing projects. Only after they feel reasonably well-read should they begin looking for uncovered angles or interesting ways of using emerging methodologies to bring new light to the topic.

When considering formatting, degree seekers should check with their specific schools and departments, as they may have unique requirements. To get a general understanding of what to expect, learners can review Simon Fraser University's guidelines on thesis formatting. After completing the thesis, some programs require an oral defense before a committee while others read the document and provide a grade. Check with your prospective schools to get a better sense of procedure.

Format & Components of a Master's Thesis

While this guide attempts to provide helpful and actionable information about the process of deciding whether to follow a thesis or non-thesis track in a master's program, readers should remember that specific components and requirements of a thesis vary according to discipline, university, and department. That being said, some commonalities exist across all these – especially when it comes to what students must include in their final drafts.

As the first section a reader encounters after moving through the table of contents and other anterior text, the introductory allows the writer to firmly establish what they want to accomplish. Sometimes also called the "research question" section, the introductory must clearly state the goals of the paper and the overarching hypothesis guiding the argument. This should be written in a professional yet accessible tone that allows individuals without specializations in the field to understand the text.

This section allows learners to demonstrate their deep knowledge of the field by providing context to existing texts within their chosen discipline Learners review the main bodies of work, highlighting any issues they find within each. Constructive criticism often centers around shortcomings, blind spots, or outdated hypotheses.

Students use this section to explain how they went about their work. While scientists may point to a specific method used to reach conclusions, historians may reference the use of an emerging framework for understanding history to bring new light to a topic. The point of this section is to demonstrate the thought processes that led to your findings.

This section allows for learners to show what they learned during the research process in a non-biased way. Students should simply state what information they gathered by utilizing a specific framework or methodology and arrange those findings, without interpretation, in an easy-to-read fashion.

After providing readers with all the necessary information, the discussion section exists for candidates to interpret the raw data and demonstrate how their research led to a new understanding or contributed a unique perspective to the field. This section should directly connect to the introduction by reinforcing the hypothesis and showing how you answered the questions posed.

Even though the previous sections give prospective degree seekers a better sense of what to expect if they decide to write a thesis during their master's program, they don't necessarily help learners decide whether to pursue a thesis or non-thesis track. The following section highlights some of the reasons students frequently choose to complete a thesis or bypass the process altogether by providing a pros and cons list.

Why a Thesis Program

Especially when entering a research-heavy discipline, completing a thesis shows prospective schools and employers that you possess the skills needed for researching and writing long-form reports.
Students hoping to pursue a Ph.D. stand in better stead with admissions panels if they wrote a thesis during a master's program.
Individuals hoping to enter a field that values syntax and grammar often better their writing skills by completing a thesis.
Students who write a thesis can submit the final product to various academic journals, increasing their chances of getting published.
Theses expand students' understanding of what they're capable of, deepen their ability to carry out an argument, and develop their skills in making connections between ideas.

Why a Non-thesis Program

Because they don't require a significant written product, non-thesis master's tend to take less time to complete.
Often mirrors a bachelor's program in terms of structure, allowing learners to complete classes and take exams without a great deal of research or writing.
Students who excel in project-based assignments can continue building skills in this arena rather than focusing on skills they don't plan to use (e.g. research)
Provides learners the opportunity to work more closely and more frequently with faculty on real-world projects since they don't spend hundreds of hours researching/writing.
Allows learners to take more classes and gain hands-on skills to fill the time they would have spent researching and writing a thesis.

How to Choose a Master's Program: FAQs

Within some academic disciplines and professional fields, research and writing plays a key role in work done on a daily basis. Because of this, master's programs in these fields require learners to complete theses to compete against peers and be seen as competent in their work. Other disciplines, conversely, rely on other tools to accomplish work and progress ideas – making theses less important.

Yes. Master's programs focused more on application than research typically don't require a thesis – although they may still give students the option. Examples of common non-thesis master's programs include nursing, business, and education.

Even though non-thesis students won't be writing a 100-page paper, that doesn't mean they avoid completing a significant project. In place of a thesis, most applied master's programs require students to take part in at least one internship or complete a culminating project. These projects typically ask learners to take what they learned throughout coursework and create an expansive final project – examples include case studies, creative works, or portfolios.

While students who followed a non-thesis path routinely receive acceptance to Ph.D. programs, those with theses often find the process easier. Even if a learner pursues a Ph.D. in a discipline that isn't research-heavy, admissions panels still want to get a sense of your academic interests and ability to engage in independent, nuanced thought. Students with theses can provide solid proof of these skills, while those without may struggle to demonstrate preparedness as thoroughly.

The answer to this question depends on many factors, but typically it is okay not to do a thesis if you plan to enter a field that doesn't depend heavily on research or writing, or if you don't plan to complete a Ph.D.

Students wanting to work in academic, research, or writing should always opt for the thesis track. They should also follow this path if they have any doctoral degree aspirations.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to complete a thesis rests with the individual student. Figuring out how to proceed on this front requires lots of careful consideration, and learners should ensure they consider various aspects before coming to a final decision. The following section helps students consider how they should and should not come to a conclusion.

Dos and Don'ts of Choosing a Thesis or Non-thesis Program

Consider the longevity of your decision: will you feel the same in 5-10 years or are you making a decision based on current desires?
Talk to others who with experience in this area. Ask them questions about their decision-making process and if they regret their choice.
Research potential thesis topics before starting a program. Going in with a game plan can help you feel more confident and settled about the process than if you're scrambling for a topic while in school.
Reach out to prospective schools to speak with faculty and/or current students following both tracks. This will provide knowledge specific to the school while also expanding your network if you choose to attend there.
Research Ph.D. entrance requirements to ascertain if the majority expect learners to possess a thesis when applying. This will give you a sense of whether you may experience issues later on if you do not complete one.
Decide not to complete a thesis simply because you have never taken on such a task and feel overwhelmed or fearful that you will fail.
Complete a thesis simply because you think it will look good on your resume. Theses require intense devotion over an extended amount of time; learners who complete them without conviction often find the process miserable.
Forget to research alternatives to writing a thesis. Just because you don't complete a research paper doesn't mean a non-thesis track lacks rigor or challenging coursework.
Forget to read examples of theses by previous students. If you feel overwhelmed by the task, reading work other people have done can often make the task at hand feel less scary.
Let yourself off easy by taking the non-thesis path. If you find you have extra time in the program, talk to your advisor about taking more classes, develop meaningful projects for yourself, or see about presenting at an academic conference.

From the Expert

Sudiksha Joshi, Ph.D. is a learning advocate. Her mission is to empower our youth to think bigger, bolder thoughts and forge a career path that will change the world. She taps into her natural curiosity and ability to identify strengths to help students and those in transition find their path from feeling lost in the traditional ways of achieving success to charting their own path. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Huffington Post, Thrive Global, Medium and LinkedIn.

Why might a student decide to follow a thesis track? Why might they follow a non-thesis track?

A student might decide to take a thesis track if she/he wants to pursue a Ph.D. Also, if the students want to focus on careers where research and writing have a strong focus, the students opt for the thesis option. Research assistantships at the graduate level are also more often available to students who opt for the thesis option.

A student who might feel that writing is not one of their strengths might choose to go the non-thesis track. Likewise, a student who has other work commitments may find a non-thesis option more convenient.

Do you have any tips for deciding on a program?

I chose a thesis option because being able to conduct independent research was a big reason to go to graduate school. Also, showing the ability that I could do research was what afforded me research assistantships which meant that my tuition was paid for and I got a stipend that paid for expenses while I was in graduate school. This also allowed me the opportunity to work closely with the faculty mentor that provided me with the support and the accountability I wanted.

I would not recommend taking a non-thesis option if all the degree requires is for you to take courses. You have little to show in terms of your learning other than your grades unless you are already working on something on the side that does that for you and all you need is a certificate.

Opt for a non-thesis option if you can still work closely with a professor or on a project and if you'd rather be involved in multiple projects rather than focus on a single project. If you already have a good (informed) reason for choosing one over the other, go for it.

What's the most important thing to consider when choosing a program?

The most important thing to consider when choosing a program is getting excited about the projects that at least one of the faculty members are involved in. Do some research and see why you are excited about a particular work that at least one of the faculty members have been involved in.

Who should students talk to when considering options?

Students should talk to other students and also reach out directly to the graduate coordinator and even individual faculty members. This means that students should have done prior homework and have some good questions ready. Asking good questions will get you at least halfway through to make the right decision.

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Published Dissertation or Thesis References

This page contains reference examples for published dissertations or theses.

Kabir, J. M. (2016). Factors influencing customer satisfaction at a fast food hamburger chain: The relationship between customer satisfaction and customer loyalty (Publication No. 10169573) [Doctoral dissertation, Wilmington University]. ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global.

Miranda, C. (2019). Exploring the lived experiences of foster youth who obtained graduate level degrees: Self-efficacy, resilience, and the impact on identity development (Publication No. 27542827) [Doctoral dissertation, Pepperdine University]. PQDT Open. https://pqdtopen.proquest.com/doc/2309521814.html?FMT=AI

Zambrano-Vazquez, L. (2016). The interaction of state and trait worry on response monitoring in those with worry and obsessive-compulsive symptoms [Doctoral dissertation, University of Arizona]. UA Campus Repository. https://repository.arizona.edu/handle/10150/620615

Parenthetical citations : (Kabir, 2016; Miranda, 2019; Zambrano-Vazquez, 2016)
Narrative citations : Kabir (2016), Miranda (2019), and Zambrano-Vazquez (2016)
A dissertation or thesis is considered published when it is available from a database such as ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global or PDQT Open, an institutional repository, or an archive.
If the database assigns publication numbers to dissertations and theses, include the publication number in parentheses after the title of the dissertation or thesis without italics.
Include the description “Doctoral dissertation” or “Master’s thesis” followed by a comma and the name of the institution that awarded the degree. Place this information in square brackets after the dissertation or thesis title and any publication number.
In the source element of the reference, provide the name of the database, repository, or archive.
The same format can be adapted for other published theses, including undergraduate theses, by changing the wording of the bracketed description as appropriate (e.g., “Undergraduate honors thesis”).
Include a URL for the dissertation or thesis if the URL will resolve for readers (as shown in the Miranda and Zambrano-Vazquez examples).
If the database or archive requires users to log in before they can view the dissertation or thesis, meaning the URL will not work for readers, end the reference with the database name (as in the Kabir example).

Published dissertation or thesis references are covered in the seventh edition APA Style manuals in the Publication Manual Section 10.6 and the Concise Guide Section 10.5

How to Write an Abstract for a Dissertation or Thesis
Doing a PhD

What is a Thesis or Dissertation Abstract?

The Cambridge English Dictionary defines an abstract in academic writing as being “ a few sentences that give the main ideas in an article or a scientific paper ” and the Collins English Dictionary says “ an abstract of an article, document, or speech is a short piece of writing that gives the main points of it ”.

Whether you’re writing up your Master’s dissertation or PhD thesis, the abstract will be a key element of this document that you’ll want to make sure you give proper attention to.

What is the Purpose of an Abstract?

The aim of a thesis abstract is to give the reader a broad overview of what your research project was about and what you found that was novel, before he or she decides to read the entire thesis. The reality here though is that very few people will read the entire thesis, and not because they’re necessarily disinterested but because practically it’s too large a document for most people to have the time to read. The exception to this is your PhD examiner, however know that even they may not read the entire length of the document.

Some people may still skip to and read specific sections throughout your thesis such as the methodology, but the fact is that the abstract will be all that most read and will therefore be the section they base their opinions about your research on. In short, make sure you write a good, well-structured abstract.

How Long Should an Abstract Be?

If you’re a PhD student, having written your 100,000-word thesis, the abstract will be the 300 word summary included at the start of the thesis that succinctly explains the motivation for your study (i.e. why this research was needed), the main work you did (i.e. the focus of each chapter), what you found (the results) and concluding with how your research study contributed to new knowledge within your field.

Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States of America, once famously said:

The point here is that it’s easier to talk open-endedly about a subject that you know a lot about than it is to condense the key points into a 10-minute speech; the same applies for an abstract. Three hundred words is not a lot of words which makes it even more difficult to condense three (or more) years of research into a coherent, interesting story.

What Makes a Good PhD Thesis Abstract?

Whilst the abstract is one of the first sections in your PhD thesis, practically it’s probably the last aspect that you’ll ending up writing before sending the document to print. The reason being that you can’t write a summary about what you did, what you found and what it means until you’ve done the work.

A good abstract is one that can clearly explain to the reader in 300 words:

What your research field actually is,
What the gap in knowledge was in your field,
The overarching aim and objectives of your PhD in response to these gaps,
What methods you employed to achieve these,
You key results and findings,
How your work has added to further knowledge in your field of study.

Another way to think of this structure is:

Introduction,
Aims and objectives,
Discussion,
Conclusion.

Following this ‘formulaic’ approach to writing the abstract should hopefully make it a little easier to write but you can already see here that there’s a lot of information to convey in a very limited number of words.

How Do You Write a Good PhD Thesis Abstract?

The biggest challenge you’ll have is getting all the 6 points mentioned above across in your abstract within the limit of 300 words . Your particular university may give some leeway in going a few words over this but it’s good practice to keep within this; the art of succinctly getting your information across is an important skill for a researcher to have and one that you’ll be called on to use regularly as you write papers for peer review.

Keep It Concise

Every word in the abstract is important so make sure you focus on only the key elements of your research and the main outcomes and significance of your project that you want the reader to know about. You may have come across incidental findings during your research which could be interesting to discuss but this should not happen in the abstract as you simply don’t have enough words. Furthermore, make sure everything you talk about in your thesis is actually described in the main thesis.

Make a Unique Point Each Sentence

Keep the sentences short and to the point. Each sentence should give the reader new, useful information about your research so there’s no need to write out your project title again. Give yourself one or two sentences to introduce your subject area and set the context for your project. Then another sentence or two to explain the gap in the knowledge; there’s no need or expectation for you to include references in the abstract.

Explain Your Research

Some people prefer to write their overarching aim whilst others set out their research questions as they correspond to the structure of their thesis chapters; the approach you use is up to you, as long as the reader can understand what your dissertation or thesis had set out to achieve. Knowing this will help the reader better understand if your results help to answer the research questions or if further work is needed.

Keep It Factual

Keep the content of the abstract factual; that is to say that you should avoid bringing too much or any opinion into it, which inevitably can make the writing seem vague in the points you’re trying to get across and even lacking in structure.

Write, Edit and Then Rewrite

Spend suitable time editing your text, and if necessary, completely re-writing it. Show the abstract to others and ask them to explain what they understand about your research – are they able to explain back to you each of the 6 structure points, including why your project was needed, the research questions and results, and the impact it had on your research field? It’s important that you’re able to convey what new knowledge you contributed to your field but be mindful when writing your abstract that you don’t inadvertently overstate the conclusions, impact and significance of your work.

Thesis and Dissertation Abstract Examples

Perhaps the best way to understand how to write a thesis abstract is to look at examples of what makes a good and bad abstract.

Example of A Bad Abstract

Let’s start with an example of a bad thesis abstract:

In this project on “The Analysis of the Structural Integrity of 3D Printed Polymers for use in Aircraft”, my research looked at how 3D printing of materials can help the aviation industry in the manufacture of planes. Plane parts can be made at a lower cost using 3D printing and made lighter than traditional components. This project investigated the structural integrity of EBM manufactured components, which could revolutionise the aviation industry.

What Makes This a Bad Abstract

Hopefully you’ll have spotted some of the reasons this would be considered a poor abstract, not least because the author used up valuable words by repeating the lengthy title of the project in the abstract.

Working through our checklist of the 6 key points you want to convey to the reader:

There has been an attempt to introduce the research area , albeit half-way through the abstract but it’s not clear if this is a materials science project about 3D printing or is it about aircraft design.
There’s no explanation about where the gap in the knowledge is that this project attempted to address.
We can see that this project was focussed on the topic of structural integrity of materials in aircraft but the actual research aims or objectives haven’t been defined.
There’s no mention at all of what the author actually did to investigate structural integrity. For example was this an experimental study involving real aircraft, or something in the lab, computer simulations etc.
The author also doesn’t tell us a single result of his research, let alone the key findings !
There’s a bold claim in the last sentence of the abstract that this project could revolutionise the aviation industry, and this may well be the case, but based on the abstract alone there is no evidence to support this as it’s not even clear what the author did .

This is an extreme example but is a good way to illustrate just how unhelpful a poorly written abstract can be. At only 71 words long, it definitely hasn’t maximised the amount of information that could be presented and the what they have presented has lacked clarity and structure.

A final point to note is the use of the EBM acronym, which stands for Electron Beam Melting in the context of 3D printing; this is a niche acronym for the author to assume that the reader would know the meaning of. It’s best to avoid acronyms in your abstract all together even if it’s something that you might expect most people to know about, unless you specifically define the meaning first.

Example of A Good Abstract

Having seen an example of a bad thesis abstract, now lets look at an example of a good PhD thesis abstract written about the same (fictional) project:

Additive manufacturing (AM) of titanium alloys has the potential to enable cheaper and lighter components to be produced with customised designs for use in aircraft engines. Whilst the proof-of-concept of these have been promising, the structural integrity of AM engine parts in response to full thrust and temperature variations is not clear.

The primary aim of this project was to determine the fracture modes and mechanisms of AM components designed for use in Boeing 747 engines. To achieve this an explicit finite element (FE) model was developed to simulate the environment and parameters that the engine is exposed to during flight. The FE model was validated using experimental data replicating the environmental parameters in a laboratory setting using ten AM engine components provided by the industry sponsor. The validated FE model was then used to investigate the extent of crack initiation and propagation as the environment parameters were adjusted.

This project was the first to investigate fracture patterns in AM titanium components used in aircraft engines; the key finding was that the presence of cavities within the structures due to errors in the printing process, significantly increased the risk of fracture. Secondly, the simulations showed that cracks formed within AM parts were more likely to worsen and lead to component failure at subzero temperatures when compared to conventionally manufactured parts. This has demonstrated an important safety concern which needs to be addressed before AM parts can be used in commercial aircraft.

What Makes This a Good Abstract

Having read this ‘good abstract’ you should have a much better understand about what the subject area is about, where the gap in the knowledge was, the aim of the project, the methods that were used, key results and finally the significance of these results. To break these points down further, from this good abstract we now know that:

The research area is around additive manufacturing (i.e. 3D printing) of materials for use in aircraft.
The gap in knowledge was how these materials will behave structural when used in aircraft engines.
The aim was specifically to investigate how the components can fracture.
The methods used to investigate this were a combination of computational and lab based experimental modelling.
The key findings were the increased risk of fracture of these components due to the way they are manufactured.
The significance of these findings were that it showed a potential risk of component failure that could comprise the safety of passengers and crew on the aircraft.

The abstract text has a much clearer flow through these different points in how it’s written and has made much better use of the available word count. Acronyms have even been used twice in this good abstract but they were clearly defined the first time they were introduced in the text so that there was no confusion about their meaning.

The abstract you write for your dissertation or thesis should succinctly explain to the reader why the work of your research was needed, what you did, what you found and what it means. Most people that come across your thesis, including any future employers, are likely to read only your abstract. Even just for this reason alone, it’s so important that you write the best abstract you can; this will not only convey your research effectively but also put you in the best light possible as a researcher.

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Blue Marble University

Scholarly, Convenient, Affordable…Online Doctoral Degrees

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Blue Marble University, the world’s most innovative virtual university, now offers you the option to obtain a PhD degree without a thesis or dissertation. All of our PhD programs, including our Doctoral degrees in Stem Cell Biology, Applied Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Law, Medicine, Education-Instructional Technology, Humanities-Critical Thinking, and Humanities-Worlds, can now be completed without any dissertation or thesis. Instead, we round out our doctoral programs with additional courses.

We find many applicants have been through the PhD dissertation wringer having experienced bad advisors, changing advisors, poor selection of doable thesis topics, and extraordinarily difficult “dissertation rules” may times exceeding 50-100 pages. Their sponsoring colleges or universities many times do not seem to care when or if a graduate student can complete his/her journey to a PhD degree. Some have called this “PhD purgatory”.

Many of our applicants transfer from another college or university where they completed doctoral course work with honors, yet could not gain any momentum in the dissertation phase for the reasons above cited.

So, in response to a need based on applicant inquiries, Blue Marble will now offer students who may be interested in any of our doctoral or PhD degree programs, an opportunity to complete the program without any dissertation or thesis.

Dr. Walter P. Drake, Director points out though: “A dissertation, also known as a thesis, is an excellent addition to a PhD program and I recommend doing one. When you graduate, you not only have the degree from Blue Marble University , but you have a nice piece of published research or other work. Every single dissertation done here at Blue Marble University is published…we make sure of it. And a published work is a nice thing to have to show an employer or other institution.”

If you are interested in a no thesis doctoral program (no dissertation PhD), please visit the website of Blue Marble University to apply to any of our programs, and be sure to let the Admissions Section know you wish to be considered for a no dissertation doctoral degree.

Blue Marble University…Always New…Always Exciting

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Home / Guides / Citation Guides / APA Format / How to Cite a Thesis or Dissertation in APA

How to Cite a Thesis or Dissertation in APA

In this citation guide, you will learn how to reference and cite an undergraduate thesis, master’s thesis, or doctoral dissertation. This guide will also review the differences between a thesis or dissertation that is published and one that has remained unpublished. The guidelines below come from the 7th edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (2020a), pages 333 and 334. Please note that the association is not affiliated with this guide.

Alternatively, you can visit EasyBib.com for helpful citation tools to cite your thesis or dissertation .

Guide Overview

Citing an unpublished thesis or dissertation, citing a published dissertation or thesis from a database, citing a thesis or dissertation published online but not from a database, citing a thesis or dissertation: reference overview, what you need.

Since unpublished theses can usually only be sourced in print form from a university library, the correct citation structure includes the university name where the publisher element usually goes.

Author’s last name, F. M. (Year published). Title in sentence case [Unpublished degree type thesis or dissertation]. Name of institution.

Ames, J. H., & Doughty, L. H. (1911). The proposed plans for the Iowa State College athletic field including the design of a reinforced concrete grandstand and wall [Unpublished bachelor’s thesis]. Iowa State University.

In-text citation example:

Parenthetical : (Ames & Doughty, 1911)
Narrative : Ames & Doughty (1911)

If a thesis or dissertation has been published and is found on a database, then follow the structure below. It’s similar to the format for an unpublished dissertation/thesis, but with a few differences:

The institution is presented in brackets after the title
The archive or database name is included

Author’s last name, F. M. (Year published). Title in sentence case (Publication or Document No.) [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Database name.

Examples 1:

Knight, K. A. (2011). Media epidemics: Viral structures in literature and new media (Accession No. 2013420395) [Doctoral dissertation, University of California, Santa Barbara]. ProQuest Dissertations Publishing.

Trotman, J.B. (2018). New insights into the biochemistry and cell biology of RNA recapping (Document No. osu1523896565730483) [Doctoral dissertation, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses & Dissertations Center.

In the example given above, the dissertation is presented with a Document Number (Document No.). Sometimes called a database number or publication number, this is the identifier that is used by the database’s indexing system. If the database you are using provides you with such a number, then include it directly after the work’s title in parentheses.

If you are interested in learning more about how to handle works that were accessed via academic research databases, see Section 9.3 of the Publication Manual.

In-text citation examples :

Parenthetical citation : (Trotman, 2018)
Narrative citation : Trotman (2018)

Author’s last name, F. M. (Year Published). Title in sentence case [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Name of archive or collection. URL

Kim, O. (2019). Soviet tableau: cinema and history under late socialism [Doctoral dissertation, University of Pittsburgh]. Institutional Repository at the University of Pittsburgh. https://d-scholarship.pitt.edu/37669/7/Olga%20Kim%20Final%20ETD.pdf

Stiles, T. W. (2001). Doing science: Teachers’ authentic experiences at the Lone Star Dinosaur Field Institute [Master’s thesis, Texas A&M University]. OAKTrust. https://hdl.handle.net/1969.1/ETD-TAMU-2001-THESIS-S745

It is important to note that not every thesis or dissertation published online will be associated with a specific archive or collection. If the work is published on a private website, provide only the URL as the source element.

In-text citation examples:

Parenthetical citation : (Kim, 2019)
Narrative citation : Kim (2019)
Parenthetical citation : (Stiles, 2001)
Narrative citation : Stiles (2001)


Unpublished	Author last name, First initial. Middle initial. (Year Published). [Unpublished degree type thesis or dissertation]. Name of institution	Ames, J.H., & Doughty, L.H (1911). [Unpublished bachelor’s thesis]. Iowa State University.
Published from a database	Author last name, First initial. Middle initial. (Year Published). (Publication or Document No.) [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Database name.	Trotman, J.B. (2018). (Document No. osu1523896565730483) [Doctoral dissertation, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Thesis & Dissertations Center
Published online but not from a database	Author last name, First initial. Middle initial. (Year Published). [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Name of archive or collection. URL	Kim, O. (2019). [Doctoral dissertation, University of Pittsburgh]. Institutional Repository at the University of Pittsburgh. http://d-scholarship.pitt.edu/37669/7/Olga%20Kim%20Final%20ETD.pdf

dissertation and thesis Citations for APA 7

We hope that the information provided here will serve as an effective guide for your research. If you’re looking for even more citation info, visit EasyBib.com for a comprehensive collection of educational materials covering multiple source types.

If you’re citing a variety of different sources, consider taking the EasyBib citation generator for a spin. It can help you cite easily and offers citation forms for several different kinds of sources.

To start things off, let’s take a look at the different types of literature that are classified under Chapter 10.6 of the Publication Manual :

Undergraduate thesis
Master’s thesis
Doctoral dissertation

You will need to know which type you are citing. You’ll also need to know if it is published or unpublished .

When you decide to cite a dissertation or thesis, you’ll need to look for the following information to use in your citation:

Author’s last name, and first and middle initials
Year published
Title of thesis or dissertation
If it is unpublished
Publication or document number (if applicable; for published work)
Degree type (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral)
Thesis or dissertation
Name of institution awarding degree
DOI (https://doi.org/xxxxx) or URL (if applicable)

Since theses and dissertations are directly linked to educational degrees, it is necessary to list the name of the associated institution; i.e., the college, university, or school that is awarding the associated degree.

To get an idea of the proper form, take a look at the examples below. There are three outlined scenarios:

Unpublished thesis or dissertation
Published thesis or dissertation from a database
Thesis or dissertation published online but not from a database

American Psychological Association. (2020a). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000

American Psychological Association. (2020b). Style-Grammar-Guidelines. https://apastyle.apa.org/style-grammar-guidelines/citations/basic-principles/parenthetical-versus-narrative

Published August 10, 2012. Updated March 24, 2020.

Written and edited by Michele Kirschenbaum and Elise Barbeau. Michele Kirschenbaum is a school library media specialist and the in-house librarian at EasyBib.com. Elise Barbeau is the Citation Specialist at Chegg. She has worked in digital marketing, libraries, and publishing.

APA Formatting Guide

APA Formatting

Annotated Bibliography
Block Quotes
et al Usage
In-text Citations
Multiple Authors
Paraphrasing
Page Numbers
Parenthetical Citations
Reference Page
Sample Paper
APA 7 Updates
View APA Guide

Citation Examples

Book Chapter
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Magazine Article
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To cite a published thesis in APA style, it is important that you know some basic information such as the author, publication year, title of the thesis, institute name, archive name, and URL (uniform resource locator). The templates for an in-text citation and reference list entry of a thesis, along with examples, are given below:

In-text citation template and example:

Use the author surname and the publication year in the in-text citation.

Author Surname (Publication Year)

Cartmel (2007)

Parenthetical:

(Author Surname, Publication Year)

(Cartmel, 2007)

Reference list entry template and example:

The title of the thesis is set in sentence case and italicized. Enclose the thesis and the institute awarding the degree inside brackets following the publication year. Then add the name of the database followed by the URL.

Author Surname, F. M. (Publication Year). Title of the thesis [Master’s thesis, Institute Name]. Name of the Database. URL

Cartmel, J. (2007). Outside school hours care and schools [Master’s thesis, Queensland University of Technology]. EPrints. http://eprints.qut.edu.au/17810/1/Jennifer_Cartmel_Thesis.pdf

To cite an unpublished dissertation in APA style, it is important that you know some basic information such as the author, year, title of the dissertation, and institute name. The templates for in-text citation and reference list entry of an online thesis, along with examples, are given below:

Author Surname (Year)

Averill (2009)

(Author Surname, Year)

(Averill, 2009)

The title of the dissertation is set in sentence case and italicized. Enclose “Unpublished doctoral dissertation” inside brackets following the year. Then add the name of the institution awarding the degree.

Author Surname, F. M. (Publication Year). Title of the dissertation [Unpublished doctoral dissertation]. Name of the Institute.

Averill, R. (2009). Teacher–student relationships in diverse New Zealand year 10 mathematics classrooms: Teacher care [Unpublished doctoral dissertation]. Victoria University of Wellington.

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Graduate Awards

3MT: Three Minute Thesis

Three Minute Thesis (3MT) celebrates the exciting research conducted by master’s or Ph.D. students around the world. Developed by The University of Queensland, the competition cultivates students’ academic, presentation, and research communication skills. Presenting in a 3MT competition increases students' capacity to explain their research in three minutes in a language appropriate to a non-specialist audience. Competitors are allowed one PowerPoint slide, but no other resources or props.

Learn More and View Past Participants

Karas Award

The Karas Award for Outstanding Dissertation has been established to recognize excellence in doctoral research at Iowa State University. Each year the two winners of this award become Iowa State University’s nominees to the national competition for the Council of Graduate Schools (CGS)/University Microfilms International (UMI) Distinguished Dissertation Award. Awards are selected annually in two of the rotating four broad disciplinary areas announced by the Council of Graduate Schools—Humanities and the Fine Arts, Mathematical and Physical Sciences and Engineering, Biological Sciences, and Social Sciences. (The CGS/UMI Distinguished Dissertation Award, consisting of an honorarium of $2,000 and a certificate of citation, is presented at the annual meeting of the Council of Graduate School in early December each year.)

The two disciplinary areas for consideration in odd years (2025, 2027, 2029, etc.) are:

Humanities and Fine Arts
Biological Sciences

The two disciplinary areas for consideration in even years (2024, 2026, 2028, etc.) are:

Mathematical and Physical Science and Engineering
Social Sciences
For more information and List of Previous Recipients

Zaffarano Prize Award

The award is offered each spring semester: to recognize superior performance in publishable research by an ISU graduate student. Publishable research is defined as work written and accepted for publication in a national or international refereed journal. Both the quality and the number of publications produced while a student at ISU will be considered. Nominees must either be currently enrolled at ISU or have graduated in the 2 preceding terms.

Deadlines: Nominations Due by March 15

Nominations should be submitted by DOGEs, Major Professors, or Graduate College Staff according to Department/Program award submission guidelines. Students do not apply directly for this award.

Submit electronic nominations to our Paper Forms box.

Winner will be notified by mid-April. Award presented at the Sigma Xi banquet in April.

To recognize superior performance in publishable research by an ISU graduate Student. A check for $1,500 and a plaque will be presented to the winner at the Sigma Xi banquet in April.

Philosophy:

Dr Daniel Zaffarano, vice president for research at Iowa State University from 1973-1988, established this award. He believed accomplishments in research contribute to our knowledge capital when they are made widely available to other workers, usually through publication, for review and use. Until results are disseminated, a research project is not completed. Part of graduate education is practice in explaining research results, orally or in writing. With the encouragement of their advisors, many students prepare and submit for publication significant achievements in their research even before a dissertation or thesis is completed. Students who gain this experience will have a competitive advantage when they seek further education or employment, and the purpose of this prize is to honor and reward those who excel for their effort and achievement.

More Details and Previous Awardees

Teaching Excellence Award

Award submission deadlines:.

Term	No later than
Fall Semester	No later than November 15
Spring Semester	No later than April 15
Summer Semester	No later than July 15

All nominations can be submitted online by designated faculty members or department staff. Follow the selection process for your department/program. Submissions by students are not allowed . Up to three reminders will be sent to departments in the weeks leading up to the deadlines. Please be mindful of the deadlines and adhere to them.

Teaching Excellence Award Form

Purpose of Program

The purpose of these awards is to recognize and encourage outstanding teaching achievement by graduate students. The intent is to recognize up to 10% of the graduate students involved in teaching each year. Departments can choose to be more restrictive in the number of awards they give out, according to their criteria and policies.

Description of Awards

Each Teaching Excellence Award consists of:

a letter of commendation from the ISU President,
a certificate of achievement signed by the ISU President and the Graduate Dean,
an honor cord to be worn at commencement, and
an official notation on the student’s transcript.

Many Teaching Excellence Award winners will not be graduating at the time they receive their award. Recipients should keep their honor cord and wear the cord at the time of their graduation. A citation will be listed by their name in the ISU Commencement Program. Funding is not available through this program to offer cash prizes. However, departments are encouraged to use their own funds for this purpose whenever possible. Any cash prize should be handled directly by the department.

Click here for eligibility and other details, as well as previous awardees

Research Excellence Award

Research Excellence Award Form

The purpose of these awards is to recognize graduate students for outstanding research accomplishments as documented in their theses and dissertations. These students are also expected to be academically superior and able not only to do research, but also to develop a well written product. The intent of this program is to recognize "the best of the best" graduating students who have submitted theses and dissertations.

Each Research Excellence Award consists of:

a certificate of achievement signed by the ISU President and the Graduate College Dean,

If Research Excellence Award winners will not be graduating at the time these awards are given, they should keep their honor cord and wear it when they graduate. A citation will be listed by their name in the ISU Commencement Program. Funding is not available through this program to offer cash prizes. However, departments are encouraged to use their own funds for this purpose whenever possible. Any cash prize should be handled directly by the department.

Graduate School
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Graduate Studies
Thesis & Dissertation

Submission Instructions

Follow these steps to successfully submit your thesis or dissertation. Pay close attention to the details before your submission deadline and learn what to do after you receive your acceptance notification.

Submitting Your Thesis or Dissertation

Helpful Advice: Try to submit your document early. That way, you will have more time to make any necessary changes that come out of your format check.

Before Your Deadline

Be sure you have prepared and formatted your document properly before you submit. Review all the important information listed below to stay on track.

Every thesis and dissertation must conform to the requirements in this guide to be accepted. If your thesis or dissertation document is not accepted on the first try, you will be required to make the necessary changes and resubmit. Read the Formatting Guide [PDF].

Summer 2024 Deadlines & Commencement

JULY 5: Format Check Deadline for Thesis/Dissertation JULY 15: Graduation Application Deadline JULY 15: Defense Deadline JULY 22: Final Submission Deadline AUGUST 15 : Official Date of Graduation* *Summer 2024 graduates will participate in commencement ceremonies December 16, 2024 10 am

Try to submit your document early. That way, you will have more time to make any necessary changes that come out of your format check.

You will submit your thesis or dissertation through ETD Administrator.

Once you get to the ETD Administrator site, click the box that says “Sign up and get started today!” You will create an account (separate from your USC accounts) and complete the steps to submit your document.

We will review your document for format compliance and notify you of any necessary changes via the email address you entered to create your ETD Administrator account. It may be several days before you hear back from us.

If you need to make changes to your formatting, do so.

After you have made the required revisions, log in to ETD Administrator and submit your new version.
Do not create a new account.
Once logged in to your ETD Administrator account, click “View/revise existing submission.”

You will either be notified that you have passed the format check or that you need to submit another round of revisions. Once you have passed the format check, your thesis or dissertation is accepted and there is no need to submit again.

After Your Acceptance Notification

Once your thesis or dissertation is accepted, you may choose to delay distribution (embargo), search databases for your document or order hard-bound copies.

Students can elect to delay the dissemination of their manuscripts with what is commonly referred to as an embargo. You can typically choose one of three options: 6 months, 1 year or 2 years. An embargo may be appropriate if your scholarship is:

Creative Work
Intellectual Property with Commercial Potential
Politically Sensitive Material

UMI/ProQuest Embargo

UMI/ProQuest combines multiple databases that include theses, dissertations, books, journals and more. Indicate your desired embargo length when you submit your thesis. This prevents the full-text version of your work from being available in the UMI/ProQuest database until your embargo period is over.

UMI/ProQuest Database

USC Scholar Commons Embargo

Scholar Commons is an institutional repository to preserve, collect and disseminate the research and scholarship of the University of South Carolina. Indicate your desired embargo length on your required signature form and attach a justification memo or letter signed by both your major advisor and program graduate director.

Scholar Commons (USC)
Thesis Signature Form [PDF]
Dissertation Signature Form [PDF]

Users with a valid USC ID can access full-text PDF versions of USC theses and dissertations through the UMI/ProQuest portal. Full-text access will be restricted if you are not using the portal through this USC library link.

If you have already completed the submission process and you have received a confirmation email that publication of your work is complete, you may place an order for copies directly through ProQuest .

USC Printing Services

Printing Services is the university community’s on-campus printing specialist. You can print copies of your thesis or dissertation through Printing Services at Russell House. Learn more about guidelines, file requirements and how to place an order , or call 803-777-3820.

BULLETIN: Thesis and Dissertation Policies

Detailed policies and procedures for your thesis or dissertation are in the Degree Requirements section of the Graduate Studies Bulletin.

Dates and Deadlines

Find dates and deadlines for thesis and dissertation preparation and for graduation and commencement ceremonies.

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.

Quick Links

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Need ? For help with this page, contact Office of the Registrar at .

Purdue University

Jul 23, 2024

2024-2025 University Catalog

HORT 69900 - Research PhD Thesis

IMAGES

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COMMENTS

Online Ph.D. Programs With No Dissertation in 2024: Specializations
An online Ph.D. program with no dissertation requirement is a doctoral program that allows students to earn a Ph.D. without completing a traditional dissertation. Instead of a dissertation, students may complete alternative requirements such as a capstone project, comprehensive exams, or applied research projects. ...
2024 Best Doctorate Degrees Online [No Dissertation Required]
Yes. There are dozens of online doctorate degrees with no dissertation being offered from accredited universities. The most common doctoral degree programs are the Doctor of Education, Doctor of Business Administration, Doctor of Psychology, and the Doctor of Nursing Practice.
Online Doctorate No Dissertation Programs
The cost of an online doctorate depends on the school, program length, and degree. On average, you can expect to spend around $41,000 per year for a Ph.D. program, according to BestColleges research. However, professional doctorates can cost around $58,650 per year. Choosing an online format can help you save money.
18-Month Doctorate Programs Without Dissertation 2024+
On average, students need to complete 54 credits to earn the degree. You may earn these credits in 18 months or up to 3 years. The courses are each 8 weeks long. There is no dissertation requirement for this course. Many students will not complete the program in 18 months, though. Those with transfer credits may.
Best 18-Month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs [2022]
This non-thesis PhD helps licensed physical therapists gain advanced knowledge and skills in their area of practice. Additionally, physical therapists earn a median salary of $91,010, making this program one of the highest-paid PhDs. Balance familial and work responsibilities easily as you complete this doctorate degree online (no dissertation).
Online Doctorate Degree With No Dissertation Requirements
Online doctorate programs with no dissertation may be an option for some students. An on campus path to education may be an option for many students. Yet, not everyone hopes to attend full time. Some may plan to enroll part time. Others may want to study at a slower rate while working a job. Online doctorate programs and online doctorate ...
90+ Online EdD Programs No Dissertation Required
Nebraska Methodist College's Online Ed.D. in Education and Leadership in Healthcare. This "No Dissertation" degree contains an 8-credit capstone split into four courses over a six-term program. National University's Online Ed.D. in Organizational Innovation, which requires a culminating project, worth 9 quarter credits.
35 Best Online Doctoral Programs in Education No Dissertation [2024]
The universities below offer doctorate of education degrees without requiring a dissertation. Under each school listed, you will find the specific EdD degrees offered. In addition, a number of schools have no GRE requirement for admission, though it varies by program. 1. Barry University.
Top Online PhD Without Dissertation
A and currently K. O. Mbadiwe University, as a lecturer and as well has been into educational consulting for thousands of students across various tertiary institutions in the world. Here top online PhD without dissertations that can help you to reach your educational goals. #1. Accounting #2.
15 Best Online EdD Degrees with No Dissertation Programs
East Tennessee State University offers two online doctoral degree programs: an Ed.D in Educational Leadership and an Ed.D in Global Sport Leadership. The former has three concentration areas and leads to a dissertation as the final output, while the latter leads to a capstone program as the final requirement.
PhD Without Dissertation or Thesis
Final doctoral projects can be intimidating or time-consuming, which is why many students look for a PhD without dissertation. What they soon discover while learning how to find a PhD topic is that the Doctor of Philosophy degree itself is heavily tied to research capabilities and publishing scholarship. As a result, it is very difficult to find PhD programs specifically that have no ...
12 Best Online DBA No Dissertation Programs [2024 Guide]
In addition, the universities included below offer Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programs that do not require a dissertation. 1. Bellevue University. DBA. Bellevue is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. 2. California Southern University. DBA.
Is it possible for someone to get into a PhD without a thesis in
I assume that you have a Master's degree but not a Master's Thesis. The answer to your question depends on the location. In the UK and the US, a Master's degree is not a requirement to start PhD studies, and therefore a Master's Thesis is also not a requirement.The admissions committee will compare your achievements with those of other students who only have a Bachelor's degree, and the ...
What's Really Behind The Flap Over Jill Biden's Doctorate
And he notes that Biden's doctorate is merely an Ed.D—a doctorate in education, not a Ph.D.—obtained via a dissertation with what he calls an "unpromising" title: "Student Retention at ...
12 Accredited Universities that don't Require a Thesis for Online
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a public university located in Springfield, Illinois. It is ranked as #42 in Best National University and #22 in Kiplinger. The Online Master of Computer Science in Data Science is a program of study that leads to the MCS degree using courses that focus on data science.
Choosing Between a Thesis & Non-Thesis Master's Degree
Choosing Between a Thesis or Non-thesis Master's Degree. As of 2015, approximately 25.4 million Americans held advanced degrees, with more citizens joining these ranks each year. As studies continue to show the career advancement and salary benefits of completing a master's degree, more and more students elect to pursue advanced educations ...
Dissertations & Theses
Over the last 80 years, ProQuest has built the world's most comprehensive and renowned dissertations program. ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global (PQDT Global), continues to grow its repository of 5 million graduate works each year, thanks to the continued contribution from the world's universities, creating an ever-growing resource of emerging research to fuel innovation and new insights.
Unpublished Dissertation or Thesis References
Narrative citation: Harris (2014) When a dissertation or thesis is unpublished, include the description " [Unpublished doctoral dissertation]" or " [Unpublished master's thesis]" in square brackets after the dissertation or thesis title. In the source element of the reference, provide the name of the institution that awarded the degree.
Published dissertation or thesis references
Published Dissertation or Thesis References. This page contains reference examples for published dissertations or theses. Kabir, J. M. (2016). Factors influencing customer satisfaction at a fast food hamburger chain: The relationship between customer satisfaction and customer loyalty (Publication No. 10169573) [Doctoral dissertation, Wilmington ...
What Is a PhD Thesis?
The typical PhD thesis structure will contain four chapters of original work sandwiched between a literature review chapter and a concluding chapter. There is no universal rule for the length of a thesis, but general guidelines set the word count between 70,000 to 100,000 words. What Is a Thesis?
How to Write an Abstract for a Dissertation or Thesis
If you're a PhD student, having written your 100,000-word thesis, the abstract will be the 300 word summary included at the start of the thesis that succinctly explains the motivation for your study (i.e. why this research was needed), the main work you did (i.e. the focus of each chapter), what you found (the results) and concluding with how ...
No Dissertation PhD Degrees
April 13, 2015June 16, 2015 by bluemarbleuniversity. No Dissertation PhD Degrees. Blue Marble University, the world's most innovative virtual university, now offers you the option to obtain a PhD degree without a thesis or dissertation. All of our PhD programs, including our Doctoral degrees in Stem Cell Biology, Applied Biology, Biomedical ...
How to Cite a Thesis or Dissertation in APA
Title of thesis or dissertation in sentence case (Publication or Document No.) [Degree type thesis or dissertation, Name of institution]. Database name. Trotman, J.B. (2018). New insights into the biochemistry and cell biology of RNA recapping (Document No. osu1523896565730483) [Doctoral dissertation, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic ...
Thesis & Dissertation
Thesis & Dissertation. The Graduate School validates the formatting of your scholarship for publishing and acts as the gateway for electronic publication of your thesis or dissertation document. For more information, call 803-777-4243 or email: [email protected]
Graduate Awards
The Karas Award for Outstanding Dissertation has been established to recognize excellence in doctoral research at Iowa State University. Each year the two winners of this award become Iowa State University's nominees to the national competition for the Council of Graduate Schools (CGS)/University Microfilms International (UMI) Distinguished ...
Announcement of doctoral theses: Disability & Society: Vol 39 , No 8
People also read lists articles that other readers of this article have read.. Recommended articles lists articles that we recommend and is powered by our AI driven recommendation engine.. Cited by lists all citing articles based on Crossref citations. Articles with the Crossref icon will open in a new tab.
Submission Instructions
Once you have passed the format check, your thesis or dissertation is accepted and there is no need to submit again. After Your Acceptance Notification Once your thesis or dissertation is accepted, you may choose to delay distribution (embargo), search databases for your document or order hard-bound copies.
HORT 69900
Joint and Special Programs (Graduate & Undergraduate) ... Tweet this Page (opens a new window) HORT 69900 - Research PhD Thesis . Credit Hours: 1.00 to 18.00. Research PhD Thesis. Permission of instructor required.
Seven graduate students honored with Doctoral Dissertation Fellowships
MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (7/18/2024) - Seven graduate students advised by Department of Chemistry faculty members were recently awarded the University of Minnesota's Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship. The seven students honored by this prestigious award are Kaylee Barr, Brylon Denman, Madeline Honig, Chris Seong, Sneha Venkatachalapathy, Murphi Williams, and Caini Zheng.
Ph.D. Dissertation Defense in Mechanical Engineering ...
The Francis College of Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, invites you to attend a Doctoral Dissertation defense by Sourabh Kulkarni on "Flame Retardant and Multi-Functional Fabrics Enabled by Bio-inspired Materials." Candidate Name: Sourabh Kulkarni Degree: Doctoral Defense Date: Aug. 2, 2024 Time: 1 to 3 p.m. Location: DAN 220

Best 18-Month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs

Top 18-month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs

Walden University

Nebraska Methodist College

Nova Southeastern University, College of Education & School of Criminal Justice

Maryville University

Monmouth University

Bay Path University

Physical Therapy

Gannon University

Business Management

Liberty University

What Is a Dissertation and How Does it Work?

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Ranking Methodology for 18-month Doctorate without Dissertation Programs

Key Takeaways

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