It is important to understand the many factors that come into play when deciding to pursue an online PhD in Finance. One of the most important factors is whether or not the program will actually provide a return on investment. The fact is that a PhD finance program is one of the most convenient to take online, as there’s not much physical requirements. It is also one of the best investments you can make in your future. It’s quite affordable yet so lucrative in the job market. The average finance professional with a PhD in Finance will easily earn a salary that is significantly higher than those who do not have a doctorate degree. Additionally, the job security and career opportunities that are available to those with a PhD in finance are second to none.
What does a PhD in Finance entail?
A PhD in Finance entails a great deal of research and study in the field of financial markets and institutions. It usually takes four to five years to complete, and the dissertation process can often be long and arduous. The PhD program is designed to prepare students for careers in academia or finance-related industries, and the coursework is typically very demanding. Students must complete a series of core classes, as well as electives that allow them to specialize in a particular area of interest. In addition, they must also complete a doctoral dissertation, which is a major research project that makes an original contribution to the field of finance. A PhD in Finance is an excellent choice for those who wish to pursue a career in finance or academia.
If you are looking for a way to change your life while making a difference in the corporate world, then an online PhD in Finance may be the perfect fit for you
Is an online PhD in finance recognized in the job market?
Yes it is. So long as you graduate from an accredited school, your online finance PhD will be fully recognized in the job market. Additionally, the value and portability of online education has come of age, with many employers actually preferring applicants with this type of qualification. Online programs have this unique mark of grit. It shows that you have what it takes to pursue ambitious goals no matter where you are, regardless of the amount of pressure involved.
You may have noticed as well that the modern ecosystem, whether in public, private or academia, is now such that the digital shift is widely accepted. Many companies, governments and academic institutions, are actually in a race to move their operations online. So you should never be worried about not landing the best opportunities with an online finance PhD. You have the same opportunities as those who pursue the on-campus version of this program.
The Best Online PhD Programs in Finance
Settling on the best online PhD program in finance that suits your circumstances and preferences can be tough. It’s a big decision that will affect the course of your career, and it’s not one to be taken lightly. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best online PhD programs in Finance offered by high-profile universities. We’ve looked at everything from the curriculum to the faculty to the job placement rate, and we’re confident that you’ll find a program that’s a good fit for you. So whether you’re looking for an Ivy League education or a program that’s tailored to your busy lifestyle, this compilation should provide you a place to start. Read on to find out everything about the programs.
1. Johnson & Wales University: Doctor of Business Administration – Finance
Johnson & Wales was founded in 1914 as a business school and has since grown into a comprehensive university offering degrees in business, culinary arts, education, engineering, health sciences, hospitality, and many other fields. Johnson & Wales is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education and is ranked among the top colleges and universities in the Northeast by many credible organizations. The university is committed to providing an education that prepares students for success in their chosen careers. It offers a hands-on curriculum that combines classroom instruction with professional experience. Johnson & Wales graduates are successful in a wide range of industries, including business and finance in general.
The Doctor of Business Administration – Finance at Johnson & Wales University is offered entirely online, allowing students to work, spend quality time with family, and do all other stuff that they love to do while making big strides on the academic end. Right after the admission process, students will go through a no-credit online orientation that sets the right mood for the entire program. This allows you a smooth transition as you are prepared for what’s coming ahead.
Right at the end of the program, you’ll have so much to be proud of as a professional, including selling off as an innovative, change-oriented professional – the kind that companies are constantly hunting for.
Minimum qualification requirements:
- All official transcripts from recognized institutions of higher learning
- At least two letters of recommendation
- Curriculum Vitae
- Personal essay
2. LIGS University: Ph.D. in Financial Management and Risk Management
LIGS University is a modern and rapidly developing university that offers accredited online programs across several fields including Business Administration, E-Business, International Marketing & Sales, and more. LIGS’s mission is to provide high-quality, affordable education that is accessible to everyone, regardless of their location or schedule. LIGS University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The DEAC is recognized by the US Department of Education as a national accrediting agency. LIGS University is also a member of the European Association for Distance Learning (EADL). Some of the advantages of pursuing your learning in LIGS University include their deliberate dedication to administering their programs in small class sizes, experienced and dedicated faculty, and affordable tuition.
This Ph.D. in Financial Management and Risk Management program is designed to be convenient enough for employed students while remaining as rigorous as it should be. The program focuses heavily on financial management and risk management.
The program is so flexible as the university is aware of the important need to allow students to determine the intensity, time, and duration of their studies while catching up with the rest of their lives. Besides, students are allowed to choose the subjects of their choice according to preference or interest. In this way, a student can specialize in a field that they are most interested in and gain as much knowledge as they can. The university also facilitates students who wish to get some knowledge from subjects they left out by hosting online webinars for a variety of subjects.
In case you’re unsure of the route you’re taking, LIGS provides professional study counseling as well.
Requirements for admission:
- Master’s degree from a reputable university
- Must be good in the chosen language of study
- Documents showing all of your academic qualifications
3. Franklin University: Doctor of Business Administration
Franklin University was established in 1902 with a focus on serving the adult learners in Central Ohio. In addition to its continuing adult education programs, Franklin also offers many degree programs that can be completed entirely online. Franklin is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The university has a huge enrollment of students, and the average class size is quite reasonable to guarantee quality education. Franklin University is committed to providing an affordable, high-quality education that meets the needs of busy adults.
The Online Doctor of Business Administration at Franklin University specializes in concrete, quality research that not only exposes the students to high-end financial skills but also improves their communication and problem-solving skills.
You’ll need the following minimum credentials to qualify for the program:
- Master’s degree from a bona fide university (or institution)
- English proficiency through good IELTS and TOEFL results
- Personal essay
Through a series of high-end courses, you’ll develop the skills needed in financial management with more solid critical, analytical, and logical thinking abilities. This sells you as a senior problem-solving leader.
4. Trident University International: Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Business Administration
Trident University International (Trident) is a for-profit university headquartered in Cypress, California. Trident offers accredited associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in business, education, health sciences, information systems and technology, and nursing. Trident is a member of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities and is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. The university has been ranked highly by many entities. Trident students have access to academic support services such as tutoring, academic advising, career services, and psychological counseling.
Trident’s mission is to provide world-class education to working adults who are unable to attend traditional brick-and-mortar universities. The university has been ranked as one of the top online universities by several independent organizations. Students have the opportunity to take advantage of Trident’s global network of professors and professionals, who are leaders in their respective fields. Trident students can also participate in study abroad programs and internships opportunities. Trident’s commitment to student success is evident in its strong retention and graduation rates. It’s no doubt an excellent choice for busy adults who want to earn a high-quality, accredited degree from a university that truly values the need to decentralize education at the highest level.
The Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Business Administration offers a variety of concentrations that transform the students with deep innovative, teaching, and research skills. The emphasis on a concrete background in finance, accounting, and economics will prepare you fully for the expected organizational pressure that professionals in senior positions often have to deal with every day.
If you have a particular interest in research and problem solving, this course is for you. It’ll sell you to organizations that major in international finance, financial management, taxation, and economic growth & development, among others.
Students must meet the following minimum requirements in order to be admitted to this program:
- Master’s degree from an accredited institution
- Official transcripts from your college/university
- Proficiency in both written and oral English
- Good critical and analytical thinking skills
- Basic information technology skills
5. Cambridge Global College: Doctor of Business Administration in Quality Systems Management
Cambridge Global College (CGC) is an international higher education institution with a focus on quality education and student success. CGC offers a range of programs from diploma to master’s and doctorate level, across a range of disciplines including business and finance, management, marketing, hospitality, tourism, Event Management and more. CGC has a strong commitment to providing quality education and has developed strong partnerships with universities and colleges worldwide.
The Doctor of Business Administration in Quality Systems Management at Cambridge Global College is rigorous. In fact, this particular PhD program has won the hearts of many students who have had the chance to pursue the program in this institution. The 100% online PhD finance program takes students through 10 core business courses. Students take these courses from anywhere in the world.
Besides classwork, students handle carefully selected assignments and research among other manageable academic tasks. They get to present their findings individually to a panel of professionals. This gives them the best chance to prove their competencies in the course.
Eligibility criteria:
- You must be a holder of a Master’s degree from an accredited university
- You must present official transcripts from your college
- Show off your competency through a personal essay
- Work experience of at least 8 years
- Good SAT and ACT scores
Some of the core areas covered in the program include Lean, Six Sigma, Legal Business Issues, Cost of Quality, and International Quality Standards among other high level finance units.
Conclusion
Finance is one of the most popular fields globally, implying the competition for jobs in finance is extremely high. In a job market as competitive as this, it is not enough to have excellent skills. It is also important to secure the highest academic qualifications. This was difficult to achieve in the past because traditional campus based programs were expensive while online programs were rare. But things have changed pleasantly. Online programs are now not only common but also affordable. With this kind of enabling environment, you have no reason not to compete for the top opportunities in finance worldwide. Simply find your favorite program and excel in it. Good luck!
PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM