Top 10 Easiest PhD Degrees to Get

Did you know that less than 2% of Americans have a doctoral degree? Earning a PhD sets you apart from millions, and with flexible online programs, you don’t have to put your life on hold to get there. But even with the easiest PhD to get, it’s still a multi-year commitment—often five to seven years. That’s a big investment, so you’ll want to make sure it aligns with your career goals and that you’re ready for the transition from academia to industry.

If you’re driven and see a PhD as a stepping stone for your future, this article is here to help. We’ll cover everything from finding the easiest PhD to get to tips for securing a postdoc, and everything in between. Read on to see if this path might be the perfect next step for you!

• What Are the Easiest PhDs to Get?
• Does Accreditation Matter in PhD Programs?
• How to Choose the Right PhD Program for You
• Best Universities to Pursue a PhD in the US
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Are the Easiest PhDs to Get?

Earning a doctorate takes serious dedication and perseverance, no matter the university. But finding the easiest PhD to get depends a lot on your own interests, skills, and strengths. If you’re strong in English and communication, a PhD in physics might not feel like the easiest fit. Choosing a path that aligns with your strengths can make all the difference.

To be clear, no doctorate is easy to earn, but some PhD programs may be more accessible for you, especially if they’re open to students with diverse backgrounds and experiences. These programs often focus on addressing large-scale issues in broad fields like education or communications, which can make them more appealing if that aligns with your interests.

Finding the easiest doctoral degrees comes down to really understanding what each program entails and how much time you’ll need to invest. Earning a doctorate requires dedication and perseverance, but certain factors can make it a bit easier to obtain. Some of these factors include:

• less math and science required
• focus on qualitative rather than quantitative research
• no GRE or GMAT required
• no dissertation/residency requirement
• online learning options are available
• aligned with your interests and goals

Now, here are the top 10 easiest PhDs to get:

1. Theology

Best schools to pursue a PhD in Theology:

• Harvard Divinity School
• Yale Divinity School
• University of Chicago Divinity School

In a doctorate in theology, you’ll study the divine and explore spiritual traditions from around the world, drawing on academics, research, and religious studies. If you’re looking for one of the easiest PhD to get options, this could be a great choice.

Most theology PhD programs focus on Christianity and the Bible, so you might find yourself studying everything from ethics, history, and philosophy to literature and ancient texts.

With this degree, you could pursue secular or religious careers like becoming a professor, social service manager, private school teacher, or director of religious education.

2. Counseling

Best schools to pursue a PhD in Counseling:

• University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
• New York University
• University of Wisconsin-Madison

If you’re already working in the healthcare or social work industry, a doctorate in counseling could be a perfect fit for you.

One of the best things about this type of program is that you can tailor it to match your interests and career goals. You might dive into subjects like human behavior, social psychology, counseling supervision, or even explore specific therapy techniques. If you’re looking for one of the easiest PhDs to get, this could be a solid option.

Earning a doctorate in counseling can open doors to advanced career opportunities in healthcare and social services. Some professionals even choose to start their own private practice, while others find rewarding positions in hospitals, universities, or community centers.

Once you complete your doctorate in counseling, you’ll be ready to pursue licensure and certification in the field, taking your career to the next level.

3. Education

Best schools to pursue a PhD in Education:

• Harvard Graduate School of Education
• Stanford Graduate School of Education
• University of Wisconsin-Madison – School of Education

If you’re aiming for a leadership role in the education industry, pursuing a Doctorate of Education might be the way to go. This program will help you enhance your educational research skills and prepare for administrative roles across various sectors.

In this field, you could find yourself in senior administrative positions at universities, professional departments, or elementary and secondary schools. Roles like principal and superintendent are just a couple of examples of what you can achieve in educational administration. Plus, if you’re looking for one of the easiest PhDs to get, this path could be a great option for you.

As you work through your education doctoral program, you’ll likely take advanced research courses. These skills will be invaluable in helping you analyze the current educational system and implement meaningful changes within academic institutions.

4. Criminal justice

Best schools to pursue a PhD in Criminal Justice:

• University of Maryland, College Park – Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice
• John Jay College of Criminal Justice
• Rutgers University – School of Criminal Justice

If you’re fascinated by the legal world, earning a doctorate in criminal justice could be a great fit for you.

A criminal justice program will help you develop essential skills for conducting your own research and analyzing data in ways that can influence the justice system. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the theoretical aspects of the field. If you’re looking for one of the easiest PhDs to get, this might be a solid choice for you.

Depending on your academic background and the area you specialize in within criminal justice, this doctorate can lead to a variety of career paths. Some graduates find rewarding positions in emergency management agencies, forensic departments, information security sectors, and academia.

5. Public policy

Best schools to pursue a PhD in Public Policy:

• Harvard Kennedy School
• University of California, Berkeley – Goldman School of Public Policy
• University of Michigan – Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy

If you’re interested in making a difference on both a community and global scale, a doctorate in public policy might be right up your alley. This program dives into public policy theory, ethics, research, and practical applications, helping you understand the development and purpose behind public service programs. You’ll even learn how to analyze and propose policies to improve them.

Your coursework will likely cover topics like ethics, legislation, communication development, management principles, and case study evaluation—all of which involve extensive research. If you’re looking for one of the easiest PhDs to get, this could be a solid option, as many programs are designed to fit various backgrounds and experiences.

After earning your doctorate, you could pursue careers as a political science professor, political scientist, or community services manager.

6. Psychology

Best schools to pursue a PhD in Psychology:

• Stanford University – Department of Psychology
• University of California, Berkeley – Department of Psychology
• University of Michigan, Ann Arbor – Department of Psychology

If you’re interested in psychology, earning a doctorate in this field can really enhance your research skills and make them applicable to professional practice.

The coursework is specifically designed to prepare you for direct professional work. You might find yourself as an addictions counselor, applied researcher, professional consultant, or even a clinical psychologist. If you’re looking for one of the easiest PhDs to get, this could be a great option since many programs offer flexibility and specializations.

As you progress through the program, you’ll take courses that cover topics like behavioral assessments, child psychology, advanced psychodynamic theory, and ethics and professional development. Plus, you can choose a specialization that aligns with your interests, which helps you tailor your education to your career goals!

7. Business administration

Best schools to pursue a PhD in Business Administration:

• Harvard Business School
• Stanford Graduate School of Business
• University of Chicago Booth School of Business

If you’re a professional looking to elevate your managerial skills, a doctorate in business administration could be a great fit for you. This research-based program allows you to combine your corporate experience with relevant research.

Typically, business administration courses are centered around an overall business development project that dives into business design, methods, tools, and professional ethics. If you’re aiming to advance your career in the business world, this could be one of the easiest PhDs to get, especially if you already have a solid background in the field.

Many business professionals with administration expertise go on to pursue senior administrative roles in their industry or become key players in making transformative business decisions that help shape their companies.

8. Human services

Best schools to pursue a PhD in Human Services:

• University of Southern California (USC) – Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work
• University of Michigan – School of Social Work
• University of Maryland, Baltimore – School of Social Work

If you’re passionate about making a difference and helping those in need, a doctorate in human services could be the perfect path for you. This program is designed to prepare you for leadership roles within organizations that focus on underserved populations.

As you work through the coursework, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of policies, legislation, rights, ethics, and protocols relevant to human services organizations. Plus, many programs allow you to choose a concentration that aligns with your interests and the specific population you want to serve. If you’re looking for one of the easiest PhDs to get, this could be a great option since many programs are tailored to accommodate working professionals.

With the growing demand for skilled professionals in social services, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make an impact. Graduates in this field often find fulfilling roles as social service managers, community service managers, or training and development managers.

9. Management

Best schools to pursue a PhD in Management:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – Sloan School of Management
• University of Pennsylvania – The Wharton School
• Stanford Graduate School of Business

If you’re looking to gain practical skills that can be applied across various industry settings, a doctorate in management could be the perfect choice for you. This program will help you build credibility in the eyes of employers and equip you with advanced skills in training, research, theory, and practice for leadership roles in business, education, or government institutions.

You’ll typically focus on areas like financial management, system management, conflict management, or human resources management. The great thing is you can structure your course load based on your interests and career goals. If you’re on the hunt for one of the easiest PhDs to get, this program might just fit the bill, especially since it covers a broad range of topics.

With such a wide scope, a doctorate in management can prepare you for leadership and management roles in nearly any industry, depending on your chosen concentration.

10. Public health

Best schools to pursue a PhD in Public Health:

• Johns Hopkins University – Bloomberg School of Public Health
• Harvard University – T.H. Chan School of Public Health
• University of California, Berkeley – School of Public Health

If you’re interested in making a significant impact in the healthcare industry, a doctorate in public health could be the perfect fit for you. This program will equip you with advanced training and research skills that are essential for various leadership and management roles in public health.

As you progress through your coursework, you can expect plenty of hands-on and practice-based learning experiences. Plus, you’ll have the option to choose a specialization that aligns with your interests—whether that’s health education, epidemiology, biostatistics, or something else entirely. If you’re on the lookout for one of the easiest PhDs to get, this program could be a great choice, especially since it often allows for flexibility in your studies.

Many graduates go on to work as medical services managers, professors, medical researchers, or epidemiologists.

Does Accreditation Matter in PhD Programs?

In the US, it’s essential to choose a degree from an accredited school if you want your credentials to hold value in the workplace. Accreditation shows that your program has quality and credibility, so you can trust that you’re getting a solid education.

While some unaccredited schools may offer low-cost degrees, they can also be running scams. To protect yourself, check your school’s accreditation status by looking for information on their website or by consulting databases from the US Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education.

Remember, college accreditation is voluntary and can come from different sources. Institutional accreditors, like the Higher Learning Commission and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, approve entire colleges or universities.

On the other hand, industry-specific bodies, like ABET or AACSB International, focus on accrediting individual programs or departments. If you’re aiming for one of the easiest PhDs to get, make sure to verify that your chosen program is accredited so you can feel confident in your investment in your education.

How to Choose the Right PhD Program for You

Thinking of pursuing a PhD? Consider the following:

1. Pick your area of study.

The first step in selecting a PhD program is figuring out what you can get a PhD in that’s aligned with your interests and goals. You probably already have some ideas based on your educational and professional background, but keep in mind that some fields offer a variety of doctoral study options.

For instance, if you’re interested in education, you could focus on areas like curriculum and instruction, educational administration, educational leadership, or higher education administration.

Depending on your field, you might also need to choose between a research-focused PhD or a skills-based professional doctorate. It’s a good idea to think about what aligns best with your career goals. Also, ask yourself whether a doctorate is truly necessary for your career or the position you’re aiming for. In some professions, a master’s degree is all you need.

2. Figure out your goals.

The easiest PhD program for you is the one that fits into your life with minimal disruption. Depending on your situation, this could mean finding a program that offers evening and weekend classes or has low-residency requirements that make it easier to manage your time.

You’ll also want to take a close look at the program’s overall credit requirements to get a sense of how long it will take to complete your degree, whether you choose to study full-time or part-time.

You should also think about whether you’re able to relocate for an in-person PhD program or if you prefer the flexibility and accessibility of an online doctorate.

3. Research universities and their programs.

Most students kick off their research by checking out a school’s website, which usually has tons of helpful information about the curriculum, faculty, experiential learning requirements, student outcomes, costs, and admissions requirements. If you have specific questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the school’s admissions office or attend any virtual or in-person information sessions they offer.

It’s also super important to confirm the school’s accreditation status. This can affect your eligibility for financial aid, future job prospects, and even further educational opportunities down the line. When you’re looking for the easiest PhD to get, make sure you’re choosing a program that checks all the right boxes.

4. Check admissions requirements.

Since PhD and professional doctorate programs are terminal degrees, they usually come with some of the most rigorous admissions procedures and eligibility requirements. These programs tend to be quite selective because they require more faculty resources for instruction and research, so it’s important to know what you’re getting into.

Before you start your application, take the time to carefully review these requirements to make sure you meet the qualifications. Specific eligibility criteria can vary by school and program, but most will expect you to have a master’s degree and relevant work experience in your field.

Many PhD programs also look for students with research experience, which can be shown through publications, manuscripts, or your master’s thesis. Plus, be prepared for interviews as part of the admissions process—this is your chance to talk about your academic and research interests in more detail.

Best Universities to Pursue a PhD in the US

The following are the top schools in the US where you can pursue your PhD:

1. Harvard University

Acceptance rate: 4.6%

Average tuition cost: $52,000

Known for its prestigious programs across various disciplines, Harvard offers a collaborative environment and access to world-renowned faculty and resources.

2. Stanford University

Acceptance rate: 4.3%

Average tuition cost: $57,000

Stanford is recognized for its innovative research and strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, especially in fields like engineering, business, and the humanities.

3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Acceptance rate: 6.7%

Average tuition cost: $55,800

MIT is known for its strong engineering and technology programs, with a focus on research that addresses real-world challenges.

4. University of California, Berkeley

Acceptance rate: 10.7%

Average tuition cost:$14,200 (in-state)

UC Berkeley is highly regarded for its research output and offers a range of doctoral programs, particularly strong in the sciences, social sciences, and humanities.

5. Princeton University

Acceptance rate: 4%

Average tuition cost: $57,400

Princeton is known for its strong emphasis on graduate education, particularly in the humanities and social sciences, and offers a low student-to-faculty ratio.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the shortest PhD programs?

The length of a PhD program can vary significantly depending on the field of study, the institution, and the individual student’s pace. However, some programs are designed to be completed more quickly than the traditional five to seven years typically associated with PhDs.

The programs listed above like a PhD in Theology, Counseling, or Education are some of the shortest PhD programs, generally ranging from three to four years to finish.

2. How long does it take to get your PhD?

The time it takes to earn a PhD can vary widely based on several factors, including the field of study, the specific program, and whether you attend full-time or part-time.

Most PhD programs take about 5 to 7 years to complete. This includes time spent on coursework, comprehensive exams, research, and dissertation writing.

3. How hard is it to get a PhD?

Earning a PhD is generally considered a challenging and demanding process. The following are reasons why it is usually difficult: rigorous admissions process, intensive coursework, comprehensive exams, research and dissertation, and the time and financial investment involved.

Takeaways

• Some of the easiest PhDs to get include theology, education, and counseling.
• The best universities in the US to pursue a PhD at include Harvard, Stanford, and MIT.
• Interested in pursuing a PhD? We at AdmissionSight can help. For more than a decade, we’ve provided stellar services to students in helping them enter their dream programs and schools.