Part-time doctoral programs allow students to work and study at the same time.
While part-time Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs may not be as common as full-time doctoral programs, there are some graduate schools that offer part-time study as an option. Often these programs are designed to meet the needs of students who want to pursue a Ph.D. but have other commitments that make it difficult to pursue a full-time education. For example, a person may be interested in pursuing a Ph.D., but have financial responsibilities that make it critical for them to have a full-time job at the same time. Likewise, a person may pursue doctoral programs part-time because he has other interests that make it difficult for him to work toward a doctorate full-time.
A doctoral dissertation is a multi-chapter academic paper written by a doctoral candidate.
The main difference between full-time and part-time doctoral programs is usually the time a person has to complete it. In many cases, full-time doctoral programs need to be completed in around three to five years. However, part-time doctoral programs can allow a student to take seven to ten years to earn the same degree.
In most cases, a person pursuing a Ph.D. part-time must meet the same requirements as someone pursuing a Ph.D. full-time. This generally means taking the same courses as other doctoral students, conducting research, engaging in self-study, and meeting other doctoral program requirements. Typically, a part-time doctoral student will have to write and defend a dissertation, and she may also have to sit exams. The extended program may allow you more time to take care of other responsibilities not related to the doctorate.
Part-time doctoral programs can be a good option for older students with jobs.
Part-time doctoral programs often require students to commit to ongoing enrollment to earn a doctorate in this manner. For example, if a person wants to earn a Ph.D. part-time, he may have to work toward his Ph.D. during each regular school semester until he earns the credential. You may not be eligible for this program if you want to take a semester off, for example.
Some doctoral programs allow students to attend evening or weekend classes to continue working while earning their degree.
Like traditional doctoral programs, part-time doctoral programs can be in-person or include online instruction. In fact, a person may choose to apply to a fully online degree program for a Ph.D. part-time. However, whether online or on campus, many part-time doctoral programs require students to take at least a few classes per semester. On-campus programs often offer day and evening classes or classes on weekends as well.