Top PhD Online Programs
Online Doctorate Degrees Without a Dissertation


Online Doctorate Degrees Without a Dissertation
Not want to write a long and lengthy research paper and just want to complete your PhD quick and fast with no dissertation formalities? If yes, then here you can browse many accredited universities offering online PhD and doctorate programs without dissertation or replacing it with applied projects, capstone experiences or real-world case studies- Designed to earn your doctoral degree faster, easier, cheaper and more practical.
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
H2: 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
Yes. As long as the university is accredited, replacing a dissertation with a capstone is fully valid and recognized.
“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.
Yes, but it’s often applied, practical research — solving real problems instead of writing a theoretical dissertation.