Best PhD Programs in California - Online & Campus
Looking to get your PhD or professional doctorate in California? Find your perfect fit in this guide with a list of top grad schools and other key information.
California is an ideal location for pursuing a PhD or professional doctorate, as there are many top-notch programs available. These programs provide students with the opportunity to reach their academic and professional goals while offering convenient online and/or part-time options. This guide will help prospective doctoral students find the best PhD and doctoral program in California for them. A list of this year’s top graduate schools is provided, along with details about the schools that offer various degree programs like the EdD and PhD in Psychology.
Top-Rated PhD and Doctoral Programs in California for 2024
When searching for the right PhD program, it is important to consider all of the options available. The three universities featured below offer a variety of high-quality, advanced-degree programs with flexible study options and reasonable costs. These programs provide prospective students with an excellent quality barometer when researching other schools, as they demonstrate just how far one can go in achieving their educational goals. Specifically, these universities offer online and hybrid programs that cater to a range of needs and budgets.
California State University, Fresno
California State University at Fresno offers many high-quality, affordable graduate programs. In addition to a variety of master’s and certificate programs, it also offers three doctoral programs. The EdD in Educational Leadership is offered both online and in person while the doctoral programs in nursing and physical therapy are only on campus. The school also offers a variety of online resources available to help graduate students with their studies and to cut down on campus visits for accessing physical resources like the library. To help offset the cost of tuition, CSU at Fresno offers assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships, though most doctoral students are not all fully funded. Doctoral program costs and CSU Fresno range from about $6,400/semester to just over $9,000 a semester, depending on the program.
Loma Linda University
Loma Linda offers a variety of graduate degrees that integrate health, science, and faith. Among their graduate programs, the school has over 25 doctoral degrees with 20 of these degrees offered fully online. While not all PhDs and doctoral degrees are fully funded at Loma Linda, financial aid is available in the form of scholarships, loans, and graduate assistantships. Graduate assistants either help in research labs or work as TAs in undergraduate courses. Financial aid is more common for in-person students than online students because of the opportunity for graduate assistantships, but online students are still eligible for scholarships and loans. Tuition costs vary by program. For example, tuition for a psychology PhD is about $12,000/year, and a Doctor of Social Work in Clinical Leadership costs about $57,355 for the entire program.
California Baptist University
California Baptist University offers a variety of high-quality graduate degrees. While many of the graduate programs at CBU are for those seeking a master’s, there are three doctoral programs available. Doctoral programs in business administration, public administration, and organizational and change administration are all offered online. You don’t have to be in California to attend, either, since the university is qualified to provide distance learning to students in 37 states. Though there are fewer financial aid opportunities as compared to other universities, CBU’s tuition is lower because of its online offerings. In fact, doctoral tuition is only $795 per credit hour.
Types of PhD and Doctoral Programs Available in California
Along with deciding what school to attend, it’s also important to seriously consider which type of PhD or doctoral program is right for you. There are six main program formats offered in California, and each has its pros and cons.
Full-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in California
A full-time PhD or doctoral program often takes four to five years to complete. These programs usually include a combination of PhD-level coursework and a dissertation, which can take two years or longer beyond the coursework to complete. Full-time programs are available in almost any discipline and are typically offered via in-person formats. Popular full-time programs include Loma Linda’s PhD in Biology and UC Berkeley’s PhD in Psychology.
Part-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in California
Part-time PhD programs take longer to complete than full-time programs, often five to eight years total. Because they are part-time, however, they can more easily be completed alongside a full-time job and other responsibilities. Many part-time programs also offer flexible study options, including online program formats. Popular part-time PhDs in California include Loma Linda’s Doctor of Marital and Family Therapy and California Baptist University’s EdD in Organizational Change and Administration.
Fully-Funded PhD/Doctoral Programs in California
If funding a PhD is holding you back, consider pursuing a fully-funded program that covers the cost of tuition and sometimes offers a living stipend in exchange for working as a teaching or research assistant. These programs are fairly common at the doctoral level, especially for in-person programs. Popular fully-funded programs include UCLA’s PhD in English and UC Berkeley’s PhD in Molecular Biology.
No-GRE PhD/Doctoral Programs in California
The GRE is the entrance exam for many graduate programs. If you want to attend graduate school but don’t want to take the GRE, consider a no-GRE PhD or doctoral program. Beyond this one entry requirement, no-GRE programs vary greatly in discipline, delivery (i.e., online versus in-person), and content requirements. No-GRE programs in California include UC Berkeley PhD in English and California Baptist University Doctor of Public Administration.
Accelerated PhD/Doctoral Programs in California
If you want to finish your PhD in less than five years, consider an accelerated program. Accelerated PhDs are available in one-year online formats as well as in longer formats. These programs still usually require a dissertation, but they often have fewer PhD-level courses than other programs. Popular accelerated doctoral programs in California include California State University at Fresno’s EdD in Educational Leadership and California Baptist University’s Doctor of Business Administration.
No Dissertation PhD/Doctoral Programs in California
A dissertation is a common requirement for most PhD and doctoral programs in California. While a dissertation can be an enriching experience, it can also take over two years to complete. If you want to complete your PhD faster than is usually necessary, consider a program with no dissertation requirement. To make up some time, these programs may require a smaller capstone project in place of the dissertation. California programs without a dissertation requirement include California State University at Fresno’s Doctor of Nursing Practice and Loma Linda’s Doctorate of Nursing in Adult-Gerontology.
Popular Fields to Earn Your PhD and Doctoral Degree in California
English
A PhD in English is perfect for people passionate about the English language. With this degree, one can pursue a career in academia as an English professor or even venture into fields like communication and publishing in the private sector. The program offers learners the opportunity to deepen their expertise in literature and grammar, allowing them to become top-notch professionals in their field.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Biology
A PhD in biology is the perfect option for those who have a passion for biological and scientific research. With this degree, one can gain expertise in the field and even become a research lead. To obtain a PhD in biology, it is necessary to be involved in lab work which makes it difficult to find an online or hybrid program. The degree provides learners with the skills and knowledge needed to not only excel but also lead research projects that can make a significant impact on society.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Education
If you want to take a deep dive into educational theory, consider getting your PhD in education. This degree can lead to a variety of career paths, including curriculum design, higher education, and leadership in school systems.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Psychology
A PhD in psychology allows you to hone your expertise in psychology while helping others as a clinical psychologist. You can work in the counseling field without your doctorate, but a PhD is needed to serve as a clinical psychologist or research lead in the field.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Nursing
While nursing positions for those with a bachelor’s or master’s degree are plentiful, a PhD in nursing allows you to take your craft to the next level. It also opens more opportunities for academic research in the field and for pursuing a specialty as a nurse practitioner.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Inside Look at Earning Your Doctorate Online in California
Hybrid and online PhD and doctoral programs offer the same high-quality education as in-person programs. Class hours are typically more flexible and fit around a typical work schedule. They also sometimes provide asynchronous learning formats where you attend classes at your own pace instead of on a set schedule.
With fully online programs, you usually don’t have to visit campus. For example, all three fully-online doctoral degrees from the California State University System don’t require travel to campus, though classes are synchronous. The dissertation in an online program is also often more flexible with programs offering plenty of resources on how to complete a dissertation online. For some online programs, like California Baptist University’s three doctoral programs, no dissertation is required at all.
For hybrid programs, like UC Irvine’s PhD in English and UC Davis’ PhD in Literature, you’ll likely have to be on-campus part of the time. These programs both require students to be on campus for classes but allow them to complete their dissertations online.
Start your California online doctoral program search by reviewing our rankings list below, which showcases this year’s top colleges for earning your doctorate online.
Best Online Doctoral Programs in California for 2024
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is a private university that focuses on providing undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs in psychology, public health, and related fields. Headquartered in Chicago, the school also operates in several locations in the U.S., including Los Angeles, California. Through its L.A. location, the school offers five doctoral degree options featuring online formats. They include the fully online PhD in Behavior Analysis and four blended-format options: PhD in Business Psychology (Consulting Track), PhD in Psychology (Industrial/Organizational Track), PsyD in Clinical Forensic Psychology, and PhD in Organizational Leadership. On-campus components are attended at the campus in LA's downtown business district. Online PhD students can also participate in training opportunities in a variety of practice settings at partner agencies located in the community.
Program Highlights:
PhD in Behavior Analysis
- Credits: 61
- Length: 3 to 5 years
- Cost: $1,703/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
PhD in Organizational Leadership
- Credits: 60
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $1,703/credit
- Mode: Blended
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
PsyD in Clinical Forensic Psychology
- Credits: 105
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $1,703/credit
- Mode: Blended
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio5
California Miramar University, a private university with its main campus in San Diego, offers online and hybrid undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a range of majors. Included is its Doctor of Business Administration program available with four concentration options: Finance, International Business Administration, Marketing, and Strategic Management. All concentrations feature 100% online classes in an asynchronous format. Some courses may also allow for attending lectures via live stream. Admission requirements include a master's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university obtained with an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applicants must also submit current resumes and statements of purpose with a minimum of 1,000 words.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
- Credits: 61
- Length: 4 to 7 years
- Cost: $707/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Distance Education Accreditation Commission
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
Loyola Marymount University is a private Jesuit and Marymount-affiliated institution located in the Los Angeles area. Through its School of Education, Loyola offers a Doctorate in Educational Leadership for Social Justice degree designed for students seeking careers working to create a more equitable and just future. The program is offered entirely online to accommodate working professionals. Students can network with faculty and other professionals in a range of fields to collaborate and share research. Additionally, students may have opportunities to conduct their dissertation research internationally and co-author academic papers with faculty members. Support services include one-on-one career coaching and personalized professional development workshops.
Program Highlights:
Doctorate in Educational Leadership for Social Justice
- Credits: 46
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $1,823/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio11
Biola University is a nondenominational, evangelical Christian private institution located in La Mirada, California. Through its Talbot School of Theology, Biola offers two education-related doctoral degree programs featuring online study. The EdD in Educational Studies prepares “leader-teachers” for advanced positions in educational leadership, publishing, and research. Biola's PhD in Educational Studies is geared toward students interested in becoming “research-teachers” and is the preferred degree choice for full-time teaching positions at most Christian higher education institutions. Admission requirements for either program include a master's degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution and a minimum 3.0 GPA on previous graduate coursework. Additionally, most students enter the program with substantial professional experience in theological education, educational ministry, or Christian higher education.
Program Highlights:
EdD in Educational Studies
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2 to 3 years plus dissertation
- Cost: $1,296/credit
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
PhD in Educational Studies
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2 to 3 years plus dissertation
- Cost: $1,296/credit
- Mode: Hybrid
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
There's probably no more prestigious postsecondary education institution in the Los Angeles area than the University of Southern California (USC). USC offers six high-quality online doctoral degree options in education and teaching, pharmacy, physical therapy, and social work. Delivery formats (i.e., fully online, blended, hybrid) and program lengths (i.e., full-time, part-time) vary by program. However, most online components are delivered asynchronously. Students in USC's online doctorate programs are taught by faculty members renowned in their academic fields. Students also benefit from access to the university's vast network of alumni for career opportunities and support. Tuition rates are notably higher than those for doctorate programs at most other schools, but USC students can mitigate those costs through the generous offering of scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid resources.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
- Credits: 43
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $2,244/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Doctor of Regulatory Science (Pharmacy)
- Credits: 64
- Length: 4 to 5 years
- Cost: $2,244/credit
- Mode: Blended
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Doctorate of Social Work
- Credits: 42
- Length: 28 to 36 months
- Cost: $2,244/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio9
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio22
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio15
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio19
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio22
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio5
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio10
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Faculty Ratio13
Funding Your PhD or Doctoral Degree in California
There are a variety of financial aid opportunities available to help offset the cost of getting a PhD or doctoral degree in California. These include scholarships, grants, fellowships, work-study programs, and graduate research assistantships. Graduate research assistantships are the most common and often cover the cost of tuition plus provide a stipend for students. For example, UC Berkeley’s PhD in Molecular Biology offers a fully-funded option that includes tuition and a stipend.
Other fully-funded opportunities come through a combination of financial aid types. UCLA’s PhD in English, for example, fully-funds students through assistantships, fellowships, and a research grant. Schools in the California State system have a variety of financial aid options as well.
Earnings for Doctorate Holders in California
Not only does earning a PhD allow you to develop field expertise, it also often leads to an increase in pay. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that on average, PhD holders make up to 34% more than those with just a master’s or bachelor’s degree. Some fields, like physical therapy and counseling, require a PhD to enter the field as anything other than an assistant or aid.
Salaries vary greatly by profession, though. The table below gives you a better idea of what to expect in average wages in California for the most popular positions that require a PhD.
| Job Title | Related Doctoral Degree(s) | Median CA Earnings (2023) | 90th Percentile Earnings (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioner | Doctor of Nursing Practice | $164,050 | $227,310 |
| College Math Professor | PhD in Education | $128,080 | $233,440 |
| Clinical Psychologist | Doctor of Psychology (PsyD); PhD in Psychology | $126,450 | $187,020 |
| K-12 School Principal | Doctor of Education (EdD) | $134,480 | $183,320 |
| Physical Therapist | Doctor of Physical Therapy | $115,550 | $130,870 |
| Human Resources Manager | Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) | $166,920 | $239,200+ |
| Economist | PhD in Economics | $105,950 | $219,240 |
| Biochemist | PhD in Biochemistry | $127,940 | $224,110 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023