Click to view 100% online programs taking applications for 2025.

Click to more featured 100% online programs taking applications for 2025.

Click to view 100% online programs taking applications for 2025.

Click to more featured 100% online programs taking applications for 2025.

Click to view 100% online programs taking applications for 2025.

Click to more featured 100% online programs taking applications for 2025.

Click to view 100% online programs taking applications for 2025.

An Introduction to this Degree

If you have already completed a masters degree within your field, you might be looking for additional methods for obtaining higher level positions in your area of expertise. Students that choose the field of counseling for their degree paths can become dedicated and well-educated professionals with the tools required for helping others work through difficult circumstances within their life. The highest degree level available for the field of counseling is the online doctorate. The online Doctorate in Counseling is a degree program that can train you in multiple aspects of counseling research and application, making it a potentially excellent choice for accelerating your promotional growth.

Those that are interested in obtaining the highest degree level in the field of counseling can do so through multiple universities in the U.S. This degree program can allow you to focus on research that can help to improve the quality of practice in the field of counseling, or even train you on how to become an effective leader in mental health organizations with varying purposes. This degree program can provide you with higher learning in aspects relating to counseling theory, mental health management, financial management, and even large-scale treatment research.

The purpose of programs such as this one is to build your knowledge from what you have learned in bachelors and masters degree programs to a greater level of understanding. The best candidates for this program may be students that have completed a Masters in Counseling and have received some work experience in the field. In order to truly appreciate all of the information provided in the online doctorate program, students should be familiar with how counseling theories are applied in the field and the many different treatment and counseling methods available for use with your clients.

As you read through this guide, you should consider what your career goals are with an online Doctorate in Counseling. Our team of educational experts has provided you with information about this degree program, as well as what can result from your completion of it.

Outline of the Degree Program

Some graduates of Bachelors and Masters of Counseling programs may be seeking routes for further success within their professionals lives. In fields such as counseling, the different types of degree programs available can provide you with varying levels of skills that can be applied in a large variety of settings. Upcoming professionals that have an interest in diving deeper into the theoretical and practical aspects of the field of counseling should consider the online Doctorate in Counseling for their education.

From the very beginning, the Doctorate in Counseling can build upon the skills that you may have learned in your previous educational experience. Most doctoral programs have a diverse research component that can allow you to create and conduct your own research about various topics within your field. You can likely expect to learn more about the methods for conducting valid research projects, as well as ways to present your research to the counseling community.

Doctorate programs in this field may also promote communication as a way to learn while at this degree level. Courses may require students to work together to find solutions and communicate issues in order to see different points of view about particular subjects. Testing and examinations may still be an aspect of doctoral programs that are familiar to students enrolled, but it may not be the central focus of each course.

One of the more important goals of the online Doctorate of Counseling is to promote critical thinking skills and the encouragement of theory based assessment and discovery. As a student within this degree program, you may be challenged to solve issues that could arise while working in higher level positions in the field.

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Specialization Options to Consider

In comparison to masters programs within this field, the online doctorate may provide you with opportunities to learn more about fields that are directly and indirectly associated with counseling. Choosing a specialization can be helpful when creating the perfect scenario for a fitting career.

Some students that may have years of experience providing counseling services at the masters level may choose to pursue a specialization that focuses on leadership in the field, while others may choose to pursue specializations in field research or improvement. Regardless of which aspect of counseling is most attractive to you, there may be specializations available to help you get started. Our team of educational experts has reviewed some of the more popular online Doctorate in Counseling programs in order to give you a look at some specialization options available.

In the list below, read through some of these programs to see if any would be a good fit for your skills and desires.

Education and Supervision

If you have some experience in the field of counseling and are interested in pursuing careers in leadership within your field, specialization options such as Education and Supervision could be the right choice for you. Programs with this specialization can teach you more about how to manage large teams of counseling professionals, communication methods for use in the field, and training techniques to help build the best possible team within your organization. This specialization option can be found in many online programs at this degree level.

Program Evaluation and Improvement

The need for professionals interested in improving the field of counseling and its practices may constantly grow as this field develops even further. This specialization option may include courses that look at the various evaluation methods used to ensure the quality of counseling programs, methods for reviewing and using consumer feedback as a method for improving programs, and the steps required to implement programs within a consistently operating facility.

Counseling Research and Practice

One of the more popular specializations for the online Doctorate in Counseling is one that focuses on promoting growth within the field of counseling through further developments related to theory and practice. This specialization may focus on research as a primary means for learning, so that students in the program can move forward into careers responsible for developing even more effective counseling methods for use in the field. This degree program may consists of independent exploration and research opportunities from start to finish.

Learning in the Online Setting

With all of the available learning options in society, students can create a degree program that fits perfectly into their lifestyle. For busy and hard-working adults, the online options for degree programs may be the most practical for what they require in their learning experience. All over the United States, colleges are offering online degree programs that can provide you with convenience and flexibility throughout the duration of your program.

Online Doctorate in Counseling programs can be a great way to learn more about your field while continuing on your path to career success. If you are like many others considering online degree options, you might be interested in knowing more about what is involved in this type of program. For starters, online degree programs can be accessed via the internet through a school's program website. Students may be provided with log-in credentials once enrolled, which can bring them to a web page that lists each class they are currently taking. Through each class web page, students can have access to their syllabus, communication tools, and assignments from their first day of class.

The online Doctorate in Counseling may allow students to engage in theoretical research and assessment practices that can assist them with building skills within these areas. Since this degree program is also popular for those interested in leadership, online courses may also provide focus and assignments to help increase student awareness within these areas. As a student in the online program, you can have the flexibility of logging in at times that work for you and turning in homework based on due dates provided to you at the onset of your courses.

Example Courses

The goal of the online Doctorate in Counseling is to promote higher learning in counseling professionals in either research-oriented aspects of counseling or practice. A few things that can influence the types of courses that you can take during your program include the the type of specialization you choose – if any – and the college that you attend. Your specialization can help organize your courses in a way that builds up to your final goal, which can diversify your experience from the generalist degree program. Different schools may also provide varying course work that covers all of the mandatory subjects for this program.

Our team of experts has looked into several different online Doctorate in Counseling programs in order to pull out some of the most common topics among them. In order to truly prepare for and understand the concepts of each program, you should always review the curriculum and what is expected of you during the process. Some online programs may also require that you take part in a supervised experience requirement, which should be planned and prepared for early on in the program. Check out some of the most common courses in this program below.

Counseling and Social Change

Students enrolled in the online Doctorate in Counseling program may take a look at different perspectives responsible for influencing their field. This course may explore concepts such as social justice, inequality, socioeconomics, and diversity as a means for learning more about methods for positive social change. These factors can play a role in the development of more inclusive counseling professionals with the ability to create programs for people regardless of their status in society, race, sex, or educational level.

Survey Research Methods

As part of the general curriculum for online doctorate programs, this course can be excellent for upcoming students interested in pursuing careers in research or program evaluation. Different research methods such as surveys, interviews, and technology-based questionnaires may be covered in this course, in order to introduce students to the many different ways that data can be gathered during the research process. This course can be a great complementary course to those focusing on effective research design and individual program assessment.

Counseling Education

A large amount of online programs in this field may consists of a teaching component for learners at this level. The goal of courses such as this one is to provide learners with methods for reaching the adult learning in a professional or educational environment. Different learning techniques may be covered in this course, as well as cultural and individualistic considerations for educating others. Students enrolled in this course can use these skills to be great trainers while working in the field or even effective instructors within a collegiate setting.

Career Opportunities with this Degree

Careers in the field of counseling can be found at levels working directly with clients in the field as well as in upper management and field research. In some areas of the U.S., doctoral level counselors may also be called upon during the creation of new assessment tools, when needed in the legal system, or even as practitioners in the growing healthcare field. Your goals and aspirations in this field can guide you into the right type of practice for what you desire.

If you are interested in learning more about what other professionals in the field are earning with this degree, you should take a look at the information provided in this section. Since there are so many diverse options for you to consider when entering into the professional field, there may be other things to consider when choosing your career path. Some upcoming professionals may be interested in joining a career that focuses on treating specific groups, while others may be more concerned with the earning potential of their degree choice.

In order to help you make the best decision, our team of educational experts has provided you with salary information from current professionals in the field. The information provided is based on yearly averages of workers within different areas of expertise. Your earnings in this field can be dependent on your previous work experience, what type of specialty field you are working in, and the state in which you work. Check out the possibilities in this field below.

• Social and Community Service Managers: $64,100 on average per year (BLS).
• Marriage and Family Therapists: $48,790 on average per year (BLS).
• Sociologists: $79,650 on average per year (BLS).

Professional Organizations to Know

The field of counseling may be one that changes with time. What is known about counseling techniques and methods may consistently evolve over time, making it necessary to stay on top of any new research and developments in the field. Current professionals or recent graduates in the field of counseling can become members of organizations that are responsible for continually educating and partnering with others involved in counseling.

If you are interested in being a member of professional organizations in counseling, you should take a look at some of the most popular agencies currently active throughout the U.S. Benefits to becoming a members of professional organizations in counseling can go well beyond simply networking with other counselors in the field. These organizations often have active websites that can provide you with access to new research, ethical considerations, and publications relevant to your practice. Conventions and conferences are also regularly offered to members of certain organizations, providing you with the opportunity to see different aspects of your field and meet with others with similar interests.

Take a look at the list beneath this section to read more about these fascinating organizations and their purposes.

The American Psychological Association

Counseling as a sub-field of psychology draws upon its parent science for expertise surrounding the human brain and its many processes. The leading professional organization for fields in and related to psychology is the APA. This organization can provide an abundance of information regarding the policies and regulations within this field, as well as a look into the many diverse fields that can be influenced by the research released in this field. Counselors interested in staying knowledgeable on the changes and improvements to the field as a whole can take advantage of membership with this organization.

The American Counseling Association

Catering specifically to the needs of counselors all over the U.S., the American Counseling Association is the go-to resources for professional counselors in all subfields and careers. This agency represents counseling from a proactive standpoint, providing new information regarding techniques and treatments, information about new careers from state-to-state, and opportunities for meeting others with similar interests and career aspirations. As a new counselor in the field, you could greatly benefit from joining this widespread organization after graduation.

The American Mental Health Counselors Association

There are numerous professional organizations that can cater to the needs of current counselors in many diverse positions in the field. While joining a generalized organization can be great for staying up to date with changes in your field, joining a more specific professional organization can help you focus on what is important in your current career. For those involved in careers in mental health, the American Mental Health Counselors Association is the agency of choice. By joining this group, you can have access to unique studies, social research, and new theories relevant to this field which can help you expand your knowledge of mental health counseling during your experience.

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An Introduction to this Degree

Students that are seeking out degree programs to help shape their careers should review programs in the influential field of psychology. This field is highly focused on the human mind and its processes, making it an excellent choice for individuals interested in the science of learning, memory, and emotion. The highest level of degree that individuals can achieve in this field is the Doctorate in Psychology. This degree program can be found at universities and online, which adds to the diversity of this degree program for those interested.

If you would like to learn more about what this degree can provide for you as a professional and what is involved in it, read more in the guide provided by our team of experts below. The Doctorate in Psychology is a degree program that can be found in-person and online. Students with intrigue into how the brain operates, why people feel the emotions that they feel, and the development of helpful treatment plans for various mental and emotional purposes should consider the online Doctorate in Psychology to help shape their future. This degree program can be found at multiple universities all over the country, making it a high quality and available degree option to consider.

This degree program may be best paired with undergraduate or masters programs focusing on psychology-based fields, but can also be a great partner to degrees in counseling, social work, and even business. Online Doctorate in Psychology programs can also consist of specializations that can help you focus on particular areas of psychology that interest you the most. Some students may choose to pursue degree specializations that focus on cognition and learning, while others may be more interested in psychology-based research or teaching. There are numerous branches of this incredible field for you to consider as you move towards choosing your degree program. Take a look at what can be involved in pursuing and completing this degree program in the sections beneath this section.

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Outline of the Degree Program

From the very onset of an online Doctorate in Psychology degree program, students may be focused on getting the education they need to pursue higher positions within their current organization. The Doctorate in Psychology online can be a great option for those interested in learning more about why people think in the ways that they do, how society and upbringing can influence behavior, and the many different treatment methods available for various psychological conditions.

This degree program can be a great option for students that have graduated from undergraduate or masters programs in social service fields, but can be especially complementary to those with previous degrees in psychology. The general Doctorate in Psychology program may take anywhere from 3-4 years to complete depending on your previous degree level. During this time you can expect to take multiple courses in research, science, assessment, and leadership, which can help shape you into a more knowledgeable doctoral-level professionals.

Some online degree programs in this field may also require you to engage in a supervised internship experience, which involves working on-site with a licensed psychologist to learn more about what your curriculum looks like in practice. Learning and experience are huge components of this online degree program. During your learning experience, you can expect to engage in deep learning about various psychological disorders, abnormal human development, and research development. The online Doctorate in Psychology can lead you into careers that focus on educating others, conducting research, or even pursuing a license as a psychologist.

Specialization Options to Consider

The field of psychology is incredibly diverse and seems to be growing as the years progress. In a field that is so involved with human emotions, behavior, and cognition, you could potentially find a specialization option that can help you focus on specialty areas that mean the most to you. While people may have varying opinions about which specialization could be your best option, it may be better to simply review what is available and compare to your career goals. Our team of educational experts has reviewed some of the more popular options for degree specialties in this field and provided them below for you to browse.

Addiction Studies

In the U.S., the drug crisis has brought nationwide attention to the need for in-depth studies into addiction. Pursuing a specialization in this field can lead you into a curriculum designed to help you better understand addition from a neurological, genetic, and scientific point of view. This program may also include elements related to the assessment and treatment of people struggling with addiction, as well as a look into developing research programs for field improvement.

Trauma/Mental Health

A popular specialization option for upcoming Doctorate in Psychology students is related to the effects of trauma and follow-up mental health programs. The courses for this specialization may look into the developmental effects of trauma experiences on both youth and adults, assessment methods available, and therapeutic interventions available for use in the field. Considerations such as pharmaceuticals, trauma-focused therapy, and counseling may also be a large component in this degree program.

Industrial/Organizational

Psychology-based degree programs can also include elements that relate to outside fields such as business. Industrial/Organizational psychology degree programs can teach students more about how to implement psychological-based programs in organizations with varying needs. Boosting employee morale, improving workplace conditions, and encouraging employee engagement are some of the goals of professionals in this field, which helps to center the curriculum of this program around these targets.

Learning in the Online Setting

The Doctorate in Psychology online can be a great degree choice for individuals that lack the extra time for attending traditional classes on campus. If this sounds like a predicament that you find yourself in, you should explore the various online options for psychology-based doctoral programs within your area.

Once you have taken the plunge and enrolled in an online program, you can choose to pursue a specialization to help shape your degree program into one that can help you meet your goals. Your program in the online setting may include aspects of research, practice, assessment, and ethics. Each of these topics can help you to learn even more about graduate practice of psychology in the field, as well as teach you different methods for leading others in your organization.

In the online setting, you may be responsible for conducting your own research, which can include choosing a subject to study, gathering relevant information and statistics, and providing a written report of your findings. This can prepare you for working in research-oriented positions in the field and even help you gain skills needed to instruct upcoming psychology professionals in a collegiate setting. In the online course room you can view your assignments, upload homework, and even complete any required assessments all through one place. Most courses may also allow you to log in at times that work around your schedule and email your instructor when needed. The convenience of online programs may be what makes these options so much more attractive for those enrolled.

Example Courses

As an interested prospect of this degree program, one of your first steps should be to fully review what this program has to offer. Different colleges may offer different variations of this degree program, which can make your journey towards a career more unique and fulfilling for your needs. Most online Doctorate in Psychology programs may consist of a general set of courses that can help you learn more about the field as a whole prior to moving into a specific specialization in later years.

In order to assist you with making the best decision for your future, our team of educational experts has thoroughly reviewed some of the most preferred online Doctorate in Psychology programs in the U.S. The goal of their search was to locate some common courses that are presented in several different programs. In the list below this section, you can review what is included in these programs so that you can be prepared for your educational journey once enrolled. As you read through these courses, consider how the topics within could promote your success in a career.

Lifespan Development

One of the most important factors in becoming a successful psychologists is associated with being knowledgeable about normal and abnormal lifespan development. This course works on the premise that professionals should have a strong understanding of development from conception, through childhood, and onward to old age. This course can help students get a grasp on the stages of life that may be influenced by trauma, society, and health-related factors. Students that complete this course may explore some historical cases of abnormal lifespan development in order to visualize the effects of social factors on development.

Research Theory and Design

At the doctoral level, psychology students should be prepared to engage in learning about the creation and design of research projects in their field. This course may provide students with the opportunity to choose their own research topic, collect data, and test their hypotheses in an online classroom setting. Students may also be trained on how to properly document and report their findings so that they can be active contributors within their field.

Tests and Measurement

Whether you decide to pursue a practical or research-oriented career after graduation, skills in testing and measurement could be beneficial for you along the way. This course can help you learn more about the various tests and assessments available for use in the field, as well as the methods for documenting results and analyzing trends and measurements. These skills can be useful to students interested in working in school systems or mental health agencies responsible for aligning services with the needs of clients.

Career Opportunities with this Degree

Since psychology’s introduction, it has quickly grown into one of the most fascinating sciences available in educational programs. This field can put you in touch with a wide range of different people, personalities, and challenges throughout your career. The online Doctorate in Psychology can prepare you for careers involved with researching unknowns within the field and potentially answering some of the field’s most perplexing questions. As a by-product of this degree program, you could also pursue careers in the field of education – teaching others about the components and skills present in psychology.

At the doctoral level, you may have a diverse set of career options to consider once in the field. Professionals with diverse understanding about the human mind and its processes could be great additions to fields concerned with social services, curriculum development, and even business. Your expertise driven by this program can lead you into many fascinating positions all over the country.

Upcoming students in the online Doctorate of Psychology program may also be interested in learning more about the specific positions and earning potential in their chosen field. This is one question that new students often ask prior to enrolling in a program, since a degree can affect their overall quality of life. In order to satisfy this question, our team has also reviewed some average salaries provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The list below can show you what you can expect in different positions related to this field.

• Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary: $85,050 on average per year (BLS).
• Psychologists: $77,030 on average per year (BLS).
• Training and Development Managers: $108,250 on average per year (BLS).

Professional Organizations to Know

Now that you have learned more about the degree program and its potential results, you should dive into what you can expect once in the field. A career in the field of psychology can assist you with changing lives for the better in many different distinct practice areas. Once you are a professional in the field, you should always be open to receiving support from other professionals and take part in any additional learning opportunities that may arise along the way.

One way that a lot of psychology professionals extend their expertise in the field is by participating in professional organizations in their field. These organizations allow membership to students, professionals, and prospects within the field of psychology as a way to bring people together for a common cause. Being a member of one of these agencies can allow you to have access to first hand information about changes in the field, opportunities to gather with others at conferences and meetings, and even support services when needed. As an upcoming psychology professional, you can take advantage of these organizations as a way to promote success within your own career.

The American Psychological Association

Students and graduates of psychology-oriented degree programs may be familiar with the largest professional organization for psychology in the country – the APA. This organization can provide professionals with support throughout their career, information on accredited degree programs, and learning opportunities that can be relevant for people at various stages of their professional experience. This organization can be a useful tool for professionals in diverse careers or even for those interested in exploring some of the most recent trends in the field of psychology.

The Society for Industrial Organizational Psychologists

Specialized fields in psychology can also have professional organizations to help guide professionals through their day to day experiences in the field. The growing field of I/O psychology has attracted many new prospects that have grouped together through the Society of I/O Psychologists. This organization can be a great method for learning more about effective assessment and planning methods for businesses all over the country, as well as a way to meet other professionals moving along a similar career path.

The Society for Personality and Social Psychology

Whether you have chosen a specialization focusing on the social aspects of psychology or not, professional organizations such as the Society for Personality and Social Psychology could be a great addition to your professional resume. This group can provide you with more information about current personality tests, social factors, and methods for use in the social environment. Members of this organization can benefit from the focus on current society and its influence on the overall psychological health of people all over the country.

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The wide range of social, health care, and assistive services available within the United States can provide citizens with the option of receiving guidance during and throughout their lifetime. One factor to consider about these services is that they may be difficult to navigate, apply for, and maintain over time. Social work professionals can help people determine what type of services they qualify for, assist them with applying for and keeping these services, and locating new services when they are available.

Degree programs that can prepare students to become helpful social work professionals can be found at multiple levels, with the highest being the Social Work Doctorate. The Social Work Doctorate is a terminal degree program that can allow students to gain knowledge about leadership and research in the social work field. Degree programs at the bachelors and masters level can teach students how to apply their skills in a real-world setting, introduce theory into their work, and follow all of the ethical and legal protocols set forth by national and state agencies.

Our team of educational experts has thoroughly reviewed degree programs within the field of social work in order to provide you with this help guide to lead you along the way. Check out what our team found in the sections below.

Outline of the Degree Program

The online Social Work Doctorate is an accumulative degree program that includes the primary components of a social work curriculum alongside topics such as leadership and instruction. This degree program is best suited by professionals that have achieved their bachelors and masters in social work and are prepared for further learning in their field. Students enrolled in this degree program can also learn more about how to promote social change within their community, which is a major aspect of successful social work practice. If you would like to see more specific topics covered in this degree program, check out this short list below.

• Research
• Practice
• Theory
• History
• Diversity
• Ethics

As you can see, the online Social Work Doctorate program consists of some very up-to-date and relevant topics that may concern those working in various fields in the public domain. This degree program can also educate you more on how to be an effective social work instructor or even a leading within social service agencies. The entire online doctorate program in this field can be taken at your own pace, meaning it can be completed in anywhere from 2-5 years. Students enrolled in this program at a full-time rate could finish within the quickest timeframe.

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Learning in the Online Setting

Upcoming doctoral students that have spent any time looking at the new and innovative online options for their degree program may be aware of some of the benefits that this type of degree program can offer them. More students may find that the online Social Work Doctorate can be a reliable form of advancing their status in the field without the same level of commitment that is found in traditional on-campus programs.

Online programs can allow you the freedom of scheduling school work and study time during the day or at night, logging in at various times of day, and continuing to pursue excellence in a full-time career without hindering school obligations. Typically students take 1-2 classes online at a time. Online courses may be shorter in duration than the standard traditional course, with some universities offering 10 week courses as part of their online program.

Part of completing courses online may involve logging in a minimum of 2-3 times per week, completing required class discussions about different weekly topics, and researching different topics in order to create helpful and intuitive research papers. The online course can also be a great platform for communication with students and your instructor. Although online degree programs are relatively new in comparison to many of the traditional options in society, more students are finding them to be better options for what they require.

In the field of social work, degree programs are reviewed and accredited by accreditation agencies responsible for consistent quality reviews of different collegiate degree programs. As the interest in online degree programs has grown over the last decade, this method of degree acquisition has continued to grow in quality and is comparable to traditional programs in the same subject area.

Example Courses

One of the first things that students may review when looking for a fitting degree program online is a program’s curriculum. You can learn a lot by reviewing what types of courses are involved in a degree program, since this is the area that provides students with the information used throughout their career. In Social Work Doctorate programs, students may be responsible for learning in several different areas, since this field is heavily reliant on multidisciplinary practice and interorganizational collaboration. Working in such a diverse field also requires a versatile skill set that can applied in a wide variety of professional settings.

Our team of educational experts has spent a significant amount of time reviewing degree programs within this field. The purpose of this research is to provide you with in-depth information about the degree program that you have chosen before you take the next step towards enrollment.

The courses provided below are some that you may see in different degree programs and can help shape your understanding of the field of social work from the doctoral level of practice. The information provided in these courses may be best absorbed by professionals that have some work experience in the field. Take a look at what our team has discovered through their research below.

History of Social Work Practice

Before you begin your experience as a doctoral social worker, you should have some insight into the history and development of the field as a whole. This course can teach you more about the introduction of social services, the struggles and challenges that were experienced when developing an effective social work discipline, and the field’s path to where is stands today. The goal of this course is to help you comprehend of the role of the social worker beginning with the very introduction of the field.

Research Theory and Design

Students enrolled in this course may begin with a look into social research practice and ethics in the U.S. This introduction can lead you into ethical development of research programs, skills for conducting meaningful research, and practical design of projects in the field. This course can outline some of the legal considerations associated with research in this field, as well as proven methods for gaining insight into the theoretical application of social work practice within the field.

Program and Practice Analysis

At the doctoral level, graduates of this program could potentially seek out leadership positions in the field. This course can help prepare learners for careers at this level, by teaching methods for properly assessing and improving social programs at various levels in society. This may include a look into efficiency surveys, results evaluations, and program planning. Students that complete this course may have a better comprehension of what is included during the auditing process, as well as initial program development stages.

Career Opportunities with this Degree

The field of social work is highly concerned with different sectors of the general public. Some fields within this area may work with children that have experienced neglect or abuse, the aging population, or even with patients in a healthcare setting. There are also secondary fields of practice in social work that may indirectly influence the quality of services provided to the general public. Your personality and skills can help guide you into a specialty field that can best exhibit your expertise. Take a look at some of the most popular career areas for upcoming professionals in the field.

Youth/Adult Services

Child and adult welfare services can be found at the state level in most state within the U.S. The role of the social worker in these areas may be to work within individual clients to ensure that they are receiving all of the right type of care required for their needs. These professionals may also work in a protective division that is responsible for stepping in when children or the elderly are mistreated, neglected, or abused.

Healthcare

People receiving regular healthcare services may also require social work professionals to help them make the best decisions for their care. Doctoral level social work professionals can be helpful when working with clients that need basic assistance with making healthcare decisions, such as those that have experienced memory loss or those that have certain types of cognitive impairment. In addition to helping people with specific needs, social workers in this field can also be helpful for people without a diverse knowledge of healthcare terms and treatment options.

Education

The field of social work is an incredibly influential field within society. If you want to have the strongest influence on your field, you might consider pursuing a career as an educator in your field. This type of career can allow you to teach others about the theory and practice involved in being a social work professional, as well as share some of your experience from working in the field. Colleges and universities all over the country could benefit from the influence of doctoral level social work professionals.

Leadership

Likely one of the most popular professional options for online Social Work Doctorate holders is at the management level. Paired with experience, the online doctorate in this field can be a great resource for those interested in managing large teams of social workers, developing improvement plans for their communities, and partnering with different agencies to ensure well-rounded care. This type of position can be found in local and state social service agencies, hospitals, and even at the government level.

Now that you have had the chance to explore some of the most popular career options in this field, you might be interested in learning more about the salary expectations at this degree level. The amount of money that you earn at this degree level can rely heavily on how much time you have spent working in this field, the state in which you work, and the subfield of social work that you have chosen for your career. The information provided below was gathered from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and provides real-world averages for you to review.

• Social and Community Service Managers: $64,100 on average per year (BLS).
• Health Services Managers: $98,350 on average per year (BLS).
• Administrative Service Managers: $94,020 on average per year (BLS).

Professional Organizations to Know

Completing your Social Work Doctorate online can be an exhilarating experience. All of the hard work and dedication that goes into completing your degree can leave you with feelings of satisfaction that can jump-start your career from the very beginning. However, some individuals worry about their transition into doctoral level positions in the field and wonder if they have all of the tools they need to truly succeed.

One way that upcoming professionals can better prepare for their transition into the workforce is by joining professional organizations. An interesting aspect about professional organizations in social work is that there are a multitude of reliable options at both the general and specialized level. New graduates can join more than one organization in order to gain the most helpful support and information along the way.

The benefit that these organizations programs goes beyond just standard networking and spreads into areas such as professional advocacy, extended learning experiences, and even the release of new policies to members. Check out some of the most popular professional organizations for doctoral level social work professionals in the list beneath this section.

The National Association for Social Workers

If you are seeking a well-rounded and diverse group of social workers to join, the National Association for Social Workers (NASW) may be the right choice for you. This large group of professionals includes social work professionals from all disciplines, making it a great place to learn more about the field and those influenced by it. This organization can allow you access to research and conferences that can expand your knowledge of the field and help you to improve your own personal practice in the field.

The Society for Social Work Leadership in Healthcare

Specialized fields in social work can also benefit from the perks of professional organizations. If you have decided to pursue a specialization focusing on healthcare, the Society for Social Work Leadership in Healthcare may be a great option for you to consider. This organization focuses on the needs of professionals that are providing social work services in hospitals or other healthcare-related entities throughout the U.S. Specific topics and trends in the healthcare field can be provided to members on a regular basis.

The American Council for School Social Work

Like other specialized groups in social work fields, the American Council for School Social Work can also provide members with focus into the practice and guidelines of school social work. This group can be beneficial to social workers that work in a school setting, or even for social workers that work with school-aged children during their careers. This organization can be a great benefit to social work professionals interested in staying up to date with methods and techniques for use in the school system.

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An Introduction to the Doctorate of Nursing

There are many degree levels for professionals in the field of nursing. Many of the current popular degree programs may focus on providing students with the practical knowledge required to help patients in a clinical setting, while other degree levels may focus on providing improvements to the field of nursing as a whole. If you are a current nursing professional that is seeking a methods to help advance your career to higher levels, the online Doctorate of Nursing could be a great option for you to pursue.

The Doctorate of Nursing online is a degree program that can teach you more about the field of nursing, leadership, and financial management of healthcare organizations all over the country. Since a majority of these programs require that applicants have 2-5 years of professional experience as a licensed nurse, most students entering into this program are well aware of the practical components of nursing in the field. The goal of this program is to advance your understanding to higher levels, such as those that manage large teams of nurses or those that are interested in research to continually change the field as a whole.

Outline of the Degree Program

If you have made the decision to move forward into Doctorate of Nursing online programs, you should prepare yourself for a different type of training than you may have seen in undergraduate and even masters degree programs. At the doctoral level, you can pursue 1 of 2 paths - the Ph.D. or the Doctorate of Nursing. The Ph.D. path can provide you with skills relevant to nursing research and field improvement. A Doctorate of Nursing can assist you in learning more about what leadership may look like in the field of nursing as well as a deeper look into the ethics and federal regulations present in nursing overall.

The courses that can be enrolled in during these programs can provide you with skills that can assist you with managing teams of nurses, developing training programs to help improve the quality of service, and partnerships with other sectors of healthcare for a strong bonded facility. Some other topics such as personnel communication, the hiring process, and budgeting may also be covered in courses throughout this program. If your goal is obtain higher tier positions in the field of nursing, advanced degree programs such as this one could be a supporting resource along the way. Many positions in the field that are open for application may require that applicants have experience in the field of nursing, as well as advanced education pertaining to the management of nursing divisions in healthcare organizations.

Specialization Options to Consider

Like its parent healthcare field, the field of nursing can be an extremely diverse place to find a career. Nursing plays a role in nearly every aspect of healthcare, especially in practice and education. Current nurses seeking doctoral level degree programs to promote their career can choose a specialization that can lead them to new places after graduation. Our team has provided a list of a few of the most common specializations below for you to review.

Healthcare Administration

Nursing professionals can learn more about healthcare organizations as they gain experience in the field. Current nurses that are considering Doctorate in Nursing programs can choose specializations that can highlight their expertise of the healthcare field and help them to obtain better positions in their current medical facility. Healthcare Administration is a degree specialization that can include common concepts about healthcare finance and management that can teach you how to make effective decisions for the organization that you work for.

Population Health

While some upcoming students choose to focus on leadership or training, there are specialization options for upcoming doctorate professionals interested in increasing the quality of care within healthcare facilities. This specialization could be a great option for nurses that are seeking positions in research or treatment development.

Education

In order for the trend towards better healthcare to continue, educated and experience nursing educators must be present to train the next generation of nurses. This degree specialization can help you learn teaching techniques, regulations and requirements of nurse educators, and allow you to explore new and upcoming topics for new nurses to be taught. If you have experience in the field and a desire to teach others what you know, this could be a great addition to your degree program.

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Learning in the Online Setting

Over the years, upcoming graduate students have been on the search for programs that could easily fit into their already busy schedules. Technology has influenced education in a way that can provide you with options for your education that may be more convenient than those offered in the traditional environment. Online Doctorate of Nursing programs can be found at universities all over the country and can provide you with a high quality educational experience to help advance your career in 2-4 years for most students.

While engaging in your courses during this program, you may find that online courses mirror what you can find in the traditional environment. This is because online programs are created to replicate your experience in a real-world classroom. These online programs are also subjected to all of the same accreditation requirements, making them reliable resources for your education. Online classes can be attended from any location that you choose, as long as internet accessibility is a factor in your choice.

Online classes may consist of opportunities for research, scenarios that require you to critically analyze situational issues, and even examinations that can test your knowledge of the material presented. All of your assignments can be completed via the online classroom and attendance can be at your convenience. Most online courses require you to log in at least 1-2 times per week, meaning you can fit your studies into a schedule that works best for you. The online degree experience can be an excellent option for busy professionals with the desire to do great things in their career.

Example Courses

As you transition into online Doctorate in Nursing degree programs, you should expect to take part in courses meant to expand your understanding of the field as a whole. Some specialized programs may focus on the practical aspect of nursing and how they can be improved, while other programs allow you to relate the healthcare field and its policies to nursing specifically. The courses that you take within each program can vary, while some topics remain intact regardless of which program you are in. In order to help you see the general trend of these online programs, our team has pulled information from current doctoral programs offered in the U.S.

Each program may have diverse course offerings that meet the same standard for education institutions in this field. Variables such as majors and concentrations can play a role in the type of courses that your program offers. The courses below represent what you may find at various universities, as well as the information that is intended for you to learn. Read through each of these courses in order to get a better understanding of what you might learn during this program.

Advanced Scientific Perspectives in Nursing

Nursing is part of the changing field of healthcare. With that knowledge, students can learn to continuously explore new ideas, question what is known, and compare theoretical foundations in order to develop more effective methods of practice. This course can introduce students to some of the most well-known theories in nursing, as well as provide students with the opportunity to develop their own ideas during the process.

Healthcare Technology

The field of nursing has been influenced over the years by the use of technology. As computer systems, new treatment devices, and better communication methods arise, nurses in the field should be prepared to work with and manage these systems on a daily basis. In this course, students can explore some of the current technologies in order to effectively utilize them in the field. Also, this course can prepare learners for implementing new technologies in the future.

Nursing Leadership for Quality Improvement

Potentially one of the most critical components of doctoral level nursing is leadership that leads to better quality in the field. This course can allow students to explore some of the current policies surrounding nursing practice, case studies that can enhance student learning, and methods for success in nursing leadership. Students interested in pursuing management level positions in the field could benefit from the skills taught in this course.

Career Opportunities with this Degree

As you can see when looking through potential specializations in the field, there are many directions that you can choose to move in when choosing your degree path. A majority of the specializations for the online Doctorate in Nursing either focus on leadership, research, or education. If you have a strong desire to be an influence in any of these fields, you should take a look at the career opportunities available for each sector of nursing.

Your training and your demand in the field can play a role in your earnings and career availability along the way. In order to help you make the best decision for your program, our team of educational experts has organized a list of common careers for those that have achieved their online Doctorate in Nursing. Each of the positions below can play a role in the accurate application of nursing practice within society, as well as the quality of nursing as a whole. See if any of these positions match what you expect to do and make while working in the field.

• Medical and Health Service Manager: $98,350 on average per year (BLS).
• Medical Scientist: $82,090 on average per year (BLS).
• Nursing Instructors and Teachers: $77,360 on average per year (BLS).

Professional Organizations to Know

Being a professional in the field of nursing can be a great experience regardless of which type of position you choose. The online Doctorate in Nursing can prepare you to work as a leader among other nurses in the field or perhaps even a lead researcher that provides new ideas to help improve the field as a whole. In order to efficiently support your experience as a graduated professional, you should consider becoming a member of professional organizations in the field, or even learning more about what each organization can offer.

The list below contains some of the most well-known organizations in the field of nursing. Some of these agencies can provide you with research to review, new ideas, and even new regulations as they release. Others can provide you with more information about accreditation and high-quality degree programs – which is helpful for upcoming students that are not yet enrolled in their desire program. Take a look through these organizations in order to familiarize yourself with what each can offer.

The American Nurses Association

Professionals that have met all of the educational and training requirements for nursing, as well as students of nursing programs can join the American Nurses Association to help jump-start their careers. This organization permits membership to professionals and students interested in learning more about the field of nursing and sharing new information about the field as it is released. As a professional in the field of nursing, it is important to maintain connections to other professionals in the field for networking and support purposes.

The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing is an important agency to know for students interested in pursuing any level of degree in nursing. This organization is the leading accreditation agency for degree programs at the certificate, associates, bachelors, and masters levels, making it an organization important for upcoming students to know.

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Accreditation agencies in nursing can be a great resource for information about reliable degree program, as well as lists of colleges that provide accredited degree programs. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education can be a great organization to know while working in this field, since it plays a role in approving bachelors and masters level programs in nursing.

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You may notice throughout your search that programs are listed in either Ph.D. or Doctorate format. These 2 different paths can both lead you into higher learning in your field, but may prepare you for slightly different career options as a result of achieving them. As you read through this guide, you should consider the differences between these 2 paths and consider what you would like to accomplish as a result of your education prior to ever choosing a program.

The online Ph.D. is an advanced degree program that can help you exercise skills in research and education. Careers at universities or community colleges that involved teaching students about subjects in your field may require that you hold a minimum of a Ph.D. within your field. During a Ph.D. program, you may be expected to engage in a research project that involves a new perspective into a certain area within your field. Introductory classes can help sharpen your skills of valid research, so that you can complete a project successfully and present it to your school.

The online Doctorate can take on a different perspective in terms of what you can learn throughout. Doctorate programs in many subject areas may focus on management or leadership techniques relevant to your field, as well as some of the applied skills that may be required in these positions. If you have aspirations of moving up in your current career or are interested in applying your knowledge in a professional setting, this could be the right path for you to choose.

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Online Doctorate Programs from a Learners Standpoint

The path you take with your online doctorate program can set the stage for your experience within. Both Ph.D. and Doctorate programs online can provide you with the freedom to engage in course work and complete assignments online, but the actual course work may vary. Our team of educational experts has broken down some standard expectations of these online doctorate programs in order to allow you to have a better grasp on what is to come in your future.

Discussions

One of the major components of online degree programs may be the discussion requirements. These types of assignments can be found at nearly all degree levels and require students to engage in conversations about assigned topics. You may be challenged to consider different perspectives during your experience with discussions, as well as to provide meaningful feedback to other students in the class. A lot of online doctorate programs will have a weekly discussion requirement for students to take part in.

Research

Whether you are in research or applied degree program, you may have the opportunity to start and finish an in depth research project on a topic of your choice. Online doctorate degree programs typically consist of introductory courses on research within your discipline, so that you can be aware of different methods to learn more about your field. Some research projects are spread out over the course of an entire class, so that your instructor can provide you with feedback along the way. These courses can help you build up to dissertation expectations or in-person experiences in the field.

Residencies

Depending on the school that you choose, you may be required to take part in 1 or more residency requirements as part of your program. One university in particular requires that students meet on campus for 4 weekends during the program in order to meet this requirement. During these visits, students can learn about how to apply their skills in a real-world setting before graduation.

Dissertations

Specific to Ph.D. programs, dissertations are a requirement of students interested in graduating from these programs. The dissertation phase of a degree program includes choosing a topic for research that adds to or changes ideas within your current field, gathering previous research on the subject, and developing a written report that is publishable in scholarly journals. This requirement is typically near the end of a degree program and can take 1-2 years to complete for most students.

Online Vs. Traditional Programs

There are many reasons why you may or may not choose to pursue your degree online. People interested in higher education in today’s society may be looking for a quick way to satisfy their need for higher pay, or simply just need the added convenience of online education.

Traditional learning environments can be a great way to establish a routine in education, especially for people that have part-time jobs or plenty of free time to indulge in in-person learning. However, if you are 1 of the many students that are working full-time positions or have a family to care for, online doctorate programs may be the better option for you.

If you were to review the requirements of traditional doctorate programs, you might notice that the quickest way to complete it is through a full-time schedule. A university that offers a traditional doctorate program states that students can expect to attend class up to 6 hours a day, 5 days a week to complete their program within 3 years from masters level. This type of rigorous schedule can provide you with regular access to instructors and peers within your area of interest, but leave little time for you to maintain full-time employment.

Online doctorate programs can be found that accept students at the part-time and full-time rate. These programs may allow students to take 1-4 classes at a time, depending on the amount of time and effort you have available for your classes. Depending on the rate that you can take courses, your completion time can be as short as 2-3 years from the masters level or drawn out to up to 5 years from start to finish. This type of versatility may be part of what makes this program so attractive for upcoming students.

Regardless of which type of doctorate program you choose, you can have access to high quality curricula to help you obtain the career of your dreams. As you look for a program to suit your needs, you should consider what percentage of your free time you would like to donate to your education, so that you can choose a program that is closely associated with those requirements. Read more below about how you can apply to a program once you have located one.

The Doctoral Application Process

Application and Documentation

The application phase of your degree program may include accessing the online application via your school’s website. In this step, you may need to provide historical information regarding your education, choose your program, and provide information about where you live and other personal details. From this point, your school may recommend that you send in all necessary documents before a final decision is made on your acceptance.

Statements of Purpose/Letters of Recommendation

At the doctorate level, some programs may require that your provide documentation that supports your purpose in the degree program, as well as letters from employers or educational instructors recommending you for the program. This requirement can help universities sort through large numbers of applicants in order to choose the most qualified. While not all schools require this step, it may be beneficial to prepare for it just in case.

Proof of Degree Acquisition

Some online doctorate programs may require that you hold at minimum a masters degree within your specific field. Some students can move straight from a bachelors program into a doctorate degree depending on the university. You should first check the educational requirements of your program, then provide a copy of your diploma to the school for consideration. The university may also require an official copy of your college transcripts in order to ensure that you meet the GPA and curriculum requirements of the program.

Test Scores

Like online masters programs, the online doctorate may also require that you submit scores from graduate level tests such as the GRE or GMAT. The school that you are considering should list whether or not these tests are required for admission. This is one of the reasons why early research into a degree program can benefit you the most. If you are required to complete these tests and have not, this can extend the amount of time it can take you to become enrolled in the program. If you would like to bypass this requirement altogether, you should research online doctorate programs with no GRE or GMAT requirement.

Time Spent Earning Your Online Doctorate Degree

An important question that upcoming students tend to ask regarding the online doctorate program is related to the time it takes to complete from start to finish. One of the more attractive features of online doctorate programs is that you can essentially choose the time frames in which you want to complete your program, based on the amount of classes that you can take per semester.

One university that offers an online doctorate program allows students to take 1-4 classes at a time over a 10-week term. Students that choose to engage in a full-time load of 4 classes could complete their program in as little as 2-3 years. If you are coming from an online bachelors program, you can likely expect to spend around 4-5 years within your online doctoral program. This is likely due to the fact that your program can encompass information that would typically be indulged in an online masters program alongside information from the doctoral curriculum. Considering an online masters can take 1-3 years and then a following doctorate program can take an additional 2-4 years, the time frames can line up regardless of which path you choose.

Students like you may choose to pursue their masters degree first in order to get their feet into the door within their professional field. This can be an economically smart way to continue earning money while finishing a degree program and may be the preferred route for upcoming students. If you enter into an online doctorate program after completion of your masters degree, you could complete your program in 2-4 years depending on the amount of classes you can manage each semester.

The Price of the Online Doctorate

Now that you have read about what is involved in these programs and what type of time investment you can expect, you might want to learn more about the financial investment required to complete these programs. In terms of financing your education at this level, you might look into federal loans that can be obtained through filing your yearly FAFSA or scholarship opportunities available through universities and your local area. Universities offering online doctorate programs may also have funding or payment options available to students enrolled.

Read more about the costs of these online doctorate programs below.

• Southern New Hampshire University: $627 per credit hour for full-time students
• Central Washington University: $9,214 per semester for full-time, in-state students
• California Baptist University: $897 to $950 per credit hour for full-time students

Important Points to Consider

The decision to pursue an online doctorate program can be a great thing for your future. Some students may be completely satisfied with a degree at the bachelors or masters level, but some feel drawn to terminal degree programs at this level. If you are considering a transition into one of these incredible programs, you should consider the amount of time you have available for learning. Online doctorate programs may require you to engage in deep research and exploration within your field. Taking 1 or 2 classes at a time throughout your program can extend the amount of time it takes you to complete your degree, but can also contribute to more quality within you work. Another factor to consider before deciding to enroll is the in-person requirements.

If your program requires that you participate in a residency as part of your program, you should start planning for this early on. Different schools can have different requirements surrounding the amount of time you spend in these residencies, as well as how many residency experiences may be required during the length of the program. It is best to know and understand these requirements at the forefront so that you can make all necessary plans to attend.

Example Schools and Doctorate Programs Available

As you move forward along your journey to academic and career success, you should consider enrolling in online doctorate programs that can help you obtain the job you are looking for. With the wide availability of online doctorate programs in the U.S., you can potentially find one that meets all of your quality standards while still allow you the flexibility that you need in your personal life.

Our team of experts has decades of experience in researching educational programs in various fields. Through their review of available online doctorate programs, they discovered that many schools offer online doctorate programs actually provided programs in very diverse specialty areas.

Check out a few examples of schools offering online programs below.

• Johns Hopkins University: Online Doctorate in Applied Health Science Informatics, Civil Engineering, Business, and Education
• Grand Canyon University: Online Doctorate in Business, Teaching, Nursing, and Counseling
• Colorado Tech University: Online Doctorate in Computer Science, Management, and Nursing