Online PhD in Finance

by Sandra Wrangell

Online PhD in FinanceSearching for an Online PhD in Finance?

If you want to be at the top of your field and looked to as an expert, you may be considering earning your PhD.

In all fields, a PhD is generally a necessity for positions in academia and research. Many professional adults feel that they do not have the time to commit to a lengthy campus based program. The good news is: you can now earn an online PhD in Finance from the comfort of your own home.

Online PhD in Finance vs. Online Doctor of Business Administration – Finance

With a PhD or Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in finance, graduates often go into the corporate world as leaders or consultants, or into academia as professors. The career path you wish to take will likely influence which doctorate level degree you obtain.

If you wish to continue in the corporate world, a DBA in finance will likely be the best choice. The Doctor of Business Administration is a professional degree, much like the Juris Doctor for attorneys or the PsyD for professional psychologists.

The DBA focuses less on research and more on applying existing theory to practical business problems. The PhD in Finance, on the other hand, does not focus on vocational training, rather on research. The programs for both doctorate degrees are similar in nature until you reach the dissertation phase.

Walden University – Online PhD in Finance

Walden University offers both the Doctor of Business Administration in Finance and the PhD in Management – Finance through online study. In addition, the university offers accelerated 8-week online classes, allowing you to earn your degree at an accelerated pace.

Walden University – 8-Week Online Classes

online phd in finance

Walden University offers accelerated classes: 8 week online classes.

Conduct specialized research in an area of interest to you while you study ways to facilitate positive social change. Help enhance your capabilities as a researcher, scholar, manager, or consultant. Study the theories, concepts, and techniques that provide the foundation for sound management decision-making. Study topics such as leadership and information systems.

The program offers you three ways to learn:

Self-Directed format – This option allows you to study independently while working with a faculty mentor to complete scholarly papers and study topics that apply to your interests. You will pursue faculty-guided independent research.

Course-Based format – This option is a structured program of study comprising online courses and residencies. As a student, you will work with a faculty mentor and follow a specific plan for completion of your degree. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with peers and faculty through online discussions and face-to-face residencies.

Mixed-Model format – This option combines online courses, face-to-face residencies, and KAMs to provide a flexible program of study. You will have the opportunity to work closely with a faculty mentor; study and conduct research on topics that interest you; and learn from faculty members through individual courses.

Walden University is regionally accredited, the highest level of accreditation possible in the United States.

Searching for an Online PhD Program or Doctorate Degree Online?

Selecting the right Online PhD Program is not always an easy task, and it is even more difficult when you are working full-time and juggling other responsibilities.

What is a PhD Degree?

A PhD degree is a research degree that includes coursework, internships, and independent research, analysis of data, and instructional theory. Whether you are searching for an Online PhD in Psychology, an Education Doctoral Degree Online, or perhaps a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree, the Online PhD Search tool will help you located accredited universities offering Online PhD Degrees.

Online PhD Program Requirements

When you enroll in a PhD program, you will learn advanced skills and knowledge in your field. You may even choose a specialization.

A typical PhD program takes between 3 and 4 years to attain, however, there are fast track programs available which allow you to complete your PhD degree in half the time.

In a traditional, campus-based doctoral program, the first two years are spent studying courses given though seminars or lectures. This also holds true for online study. Once again, some universities allow you to take accelerated classes and earn your PhD in less time, but that is not always the case. If earning your doctorate degree at an accelerated pace is a priority, be sure to use our PhD search tool to find universities that offer 8-week classes or other fast track programs.

Regardless of whether you opt for a fast track or traditional program, the final culmination of your doctoral studies will be your dissertation or a thesis fit for publication. If you have a preference (dissertation or thesis), be sure to compare universities and request free information to determine all program requirements before you apply. You’ll be glad you did!

Job Opportunities for PhD Holders

In big corporations, CEOs and CFOs are typically PhD-holders. Aside from opportunities in the corporate world, a PhD will also give you a chance to teach post-secondary students. Universities require their teachers to be PhD-holders. Using your specialization, you can teach the next generation of world leaders.

Ready to find a program that is right for you? Compare Online PhD programs now:

PhD in Finance Curriculum

Like all doctorate level programs, a PhD program has a coursework phase and a dissertation phase.

The required number of credit hours varies widely by universities and will depend on whether or not you have earned your master’s degree prior to being admitted to the program (some universities offer the master’s and PhD in the same program).

phd in financeWhen earning your PhD in finance, classes will include financial markets, corporate financial management, financial analysis and planning, and valuation of assets and entities, among other things.

The length of time needed to complete the coursework phase of the program will likely depend on you. Some students have the ability and time to take more than one course each semester.

It is important to point out that some programs will only let you take one course per quarter or semester. This allows you to focus on one topic and set of assignments at a time. This promotes retention of the subject and will help you succeed.

If you would like to earn your degree more quickly, make sure that when you are comparing universities that you review the academic course load requirements.

PhD Dissertation

The PhD in Finance dissertation is like most PhD programs in other disciplines. You will be required to conduct original research and write a dissertation of your findings. These findings will be defended in front of a university committee.

Online PhD Finance Degree programsAfter both the coursework phase and dissertation phase are completed successfully, you will earn the esteemed title of “Doctor”.

While programs can be very challenging, the rewards are well worth the effort.

PhD graduates typically hold positions of greater responsibility and have increased earnings.

Ready to explore your options?

Compare accredited online PhD and Doctor of Business Administration programs in finance now: