What is a No-Dissertation PhD?
️ Instead of a traditional dissertation, students complete:
- Capstone Projects
- Applied Research Projects
- Case Studies or Portfolios
- Practical Problem-Solving Models
Advantages of No-Dissertation Programs
- ✅ Faster completion (2.5–3 years)
- ✅ More flexible and applied
- ✅ Great for real-world impact
- ✅ Lower academic pressure
- ✅ Often available 100% online
Featured No-Dissertation Programs
Universities Offering No-Dissertation Doctorates Online
🎓 Purdue University Global
- EdD, DNP, DBA (Capstone-based)
- 100% Online, ~3 years
🔗 [View Programs]
🎓 University of the People
- Doctor of Education
- Tuition-free model, capstone project
🔗 [View Program]
🎓 Capella University (FlexPath)
- DBA, EdD, PhD in Counseling
- No dissertation – applied project instead
🔗 [Visit Capella]
Compare No-Dissertation Online PhD/Docotrate Options
| University | Dissertation-Free? | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purdue Global | ✅ Capstone | ~3 yrs | Online |
| Univ. of the People | ✅ Yes | 3–4 yrs | Online |
| Capella FlexPath | ✅ Yes | ~3 yrs | Self-paced |
FAQs – No Dissertation PhD
Q1: Are no-dissertation PhDs legitimate?
Yes. As long as the university is accredited, replacing a dissertation with a capstone is fully valid and recognized.
Q2: What’s the easiest online PhD?
“Easiest” often means less research-intensive. Applied doctorates like EdD, DBA, and DNP are usually more flexible and easier to complete than academic research PhDs.
Q3: Will I still do research in a no-dissertation PhD?
Yes, but it’s often applied, practical research — solving real problems instead of writing a theoretical dissertation.