Is an online Ph.D worth anything?

Answer 1

Whilst I haven't attempted a phD online I have studied postgraduate degrees online in subjects ranging from Management to Medicine (and am planning to start an external Fellowship in Medicine this year) so I'm basing my response on those experiences. Ideally, I would choose an external program from a traditional University or College because the online qualification will be identical to their regular offering. Some attendance may be required for orientation, presentations, exams etc, but otherwise you should be free to pursue your courses and research at your convenience and most likely at your workplace. The negative side of online graduate studies is the lack of rapport with senior faculty. Also, if your online phD is research based and requires an extensive thesis, then any publications eventuating from that will speak for themselves and add value to your degree irrespective of its mode of delivery. Finally, don't waste your time and money on unaccredited programs, particularly since online delivery does not limit you to your local area and there are some great international institutions ready to oblige.