The Big List of No GRE Online PhD Degrees

The GRE test measures analytical reasoning, quantitative abilities, and verbal reasoning. For some, the standardized test acts as a barrier between them and graduate school. Many online Ph.D. programs require GRE scores for admission, but prospective students can also find schools offering options for an online Ph.D. with no GRE requirement.

Many fields, including business, education, psychology, and public health, make GRE scores optional or waive requirements for qualifying students. Other programs simply do not require the GRE test at all.

This article introduces the GRE exam, looks at the differences between the GMAT and GRE, and lists programs that often do not require the GRE.


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Top 10 No GRE Ph.D. Programs

RankSchoolLocation
1Baker UniversityBaldwin City, KS
2Bell State UniversityMuncie, IN
3Bradley UniversityPeoria, IL
4Concordia University — IrvineIrvine, CA
5Concordia University — Saint PaulSaint Paul, MN
6Creighton UniversityOmaha, NE
7Endicott CollegeBeverly, MA
8George Washington UniversityWashington, DC
9Georgia College & State UniversityMilledgeville, GA
10Gonzaga UniversitySpokane, WA

What is the GRE, and Who Needs to Take It?

The GRE general test measures graduate-level skills for students pursuing degrees in the liberal arts, business, and law, among other fields. Many master’s and doctoral programs call for GRE scores as part of their admissions process. Some even set minimum GRE score requirements for admission.

The test includes three sections: verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. These sections test students’ ability to analyze data, draw inferences from passages, and solve problems. Students also demonstrate their critical thinking and analytical abilities on the written portion of the exam.

Test-takers complete six total sections over the course of three hours and 45 minutes. Each section takes 30-35 minutes, including a potential unscored or research section.

The GRE uses an adaptive design and is administered digitally. During the exam, test-takers can skip and return to questions or change their answers within the section. They can also use a calculator during the quantitative reasoning section. GRE scores range from 260-340, with an average score of around 300.

It costs $205 to take the GRE and scores remain valid for five years. In addition to the general test, the GRE also offers subject tests in biology, chemistry, literature, mathematics, physics, and psychology.

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The GRE vs. GMAT

Most business schools accept either the GRE or the GMAT. As a result, prospective business graduate students must decide which test best fits their needs.

The GRE and GMAT overlap in several areas. Both tests take a little over three hours, and both test students on their verbal and quantitative skills. They also both include analytical writing sections. The GRE costs $205, while the GMAT costs $250. In both cases, test scores remain valid for five years.

However, the two exams do differ in format and content. The GMAT includes an integrated reasoning section, which leans heavily on graphic data analysis, while the GRE sets a higher bar for vocabulary. In general, the GRE has a reputation for asking tougher questions on the verbal section, while the GMAT asks harder quantitative questions.

The tests use different scoring methods, as well. GRE test-takers receive score on their verbal and quantitative reasoning sections ranging from 130-170, with a separate score in analytical writing. GMAT scores range from 200-800, with most test-takers receiving scores between 400 and 600.

Reasons to Choose a No GRE Ph.D.

Many doctoral programs do not look at GRE scores to evaluate potential students. In some fields, standardized tests do not closely predict performance in graduate school. Other fields rely more heavily on experience versus test performance.

A growing number of schools no longer rely heavily on standardized tests during the admissions process. For example, more than 50 colleges and universities have dropped their ACT or SAT requirement for 2021 admissions.


“A growing number of schools no longer rely heavily on standardized tests during the admissions process.”

Some students choose an online Ph.D. with no GRE requirement because they simply do not perform well on standardized tests. With less pressure to perform on the GRE, prospective students can spend more time on other parts of their application.

Taking the GRE requires a significant investment. Many test-takers spend weeks or months studying for the test, and skipping the GRE appeals to busy students and working professionals. Opting out of the GRE also saves students $205, plus the cost of prep materials, which can easily run over $1,000.

Finally, doctoral programs that do not require the GRE tend to emphasize academic and professional training over test scores.

Finding Test Optional Colleges

Before signing up for the test, prospective students should carefully consider whether they want to put in the time and energy to take the GRE. If you decide not to take the GRE, it’s time to start researching Ph.D. programs that do not require it.

How can you find Ph.D. programs with no GRE requirement? Prospective students should start their search early. Fortunately, many schools post their admission requirements online.


“…many programs that waive the GRE requirement require additional materials during the admissions process.”

However, many programs that waive the GRE requirement require additional materials during the admissions process. Some programs waive the GRE for students with a minimum GPA or a master’s degree in the field. In certain fields, like education, applicants with significant experience do not need to provide GRE scores. Other programs make the GRE optional for all students.

Prospective doctoral students should spend time researching programs before submitting an application Looking into GRE requirements during the research process can help students narrow their options.

Top Online No GRE Ph.D. Degrees

Many programs offer an online Ph.D. with no GRE requirement. This section covers the major fields that commonly offer a no-GRE Ph.D. option.

Business

In business, doctoral students can pursue a doctor of business administration (DBA) or a Ph.D. Both degrees emphasize research and require a dissertation, but the DBA generally focuses on applied business while the Ph.D. focuses on theory.

Many doctoral programs in business do not require GRE scores. However, some may require GMAT scores or an MBA degree to enter the program.

Computer Science

Earning a Ph.D. in computer science prepares graduates for leading roles in the tech industry. During a doctoral program, students study current and emerging areas of research, conduct interdisciplinary research, and develop new technologies.

While some computer science doctoral programs require the GRE, a growing number no longer ask for it as part of the application package. Many programs do require a master’s degree in computer science or a closely related field for admission.

Counseling/Psychology

The fields of counseling and psychology often require a doctorate. In a doctoral program, graduate students strengthen their analytical stills and learn to help patients cope with their environments. The degree meets the requirements for a counseling or psychology license.

Many Ph.D. programs in counseling and psychology do not require GRE scores for admission. Instead, applicants may need a master’s degree, clinical experience, and letters of recommendation.

Criminal Justice

A Ph.D. in criminal justice prepares graduates for leadership roles in the field. Doctoral students learn about criminal justice theory, administration, and the criminal justice system in practice. Depending on their focus area, students may specialize in criminal behavior, leadership theory, or homeland security.

Many criminal justice programs that offer an online Ph.D. offer a no GRE admission option. Some programs may set minimum experience requirements or waive the GRE requirement for candidates with a master’s degree.

Education

In education, doctoral students can pursue a Ph.D. or an Ed.D. The Ph.D. is a research-focused option that leads to careers in research and academia. The practice-focused Ed.D. prepares graduates for leadership positions in educational organizations.

Education Ed.D. and Ph.D. programs without GRE requirements may expect applicants to show several years of teaching experience and a master’s degree. In particular, Ed.D. programs appeal to experienced educators.

Environmental Studies

A doctorate in environmental studies blends research and practice in an interdisciplinary field. Doctoral students conduct research in a variety of areas, designing their coursework around their focus. The degree trains students for research, academic, and policy roles.

Environmental studies Ph.D. programs with no GRE requirement may require supplemental materials, such as work experience, a master’s degree, and letters of recommendation. Most programs also set prerequisite coursework in the sciences.

Healthcare

In the healthcare field, doctoral students can specialize in healthcare management, healthcare administration, and healthcare economics. By bridging healthcare and business, the degree appeals to students with a variety of backgrounds. After completing a doctorate, graduates work in healthcare administration or research, including academic positions.

Many Ph.D. programs in healthcare do not require the GRE. Applicants may need to show experience in healthcare or business and hold a master’s degree in a related field.

Public Health

A doctorate in public health emphasizes research and field experience from a multidisciplinary perspective. The degree prepares graduates for academic and research roles in the field. Many programs offer specializations in areas like epidemiology, global health, and health services.

Applicants pursuing a public health doctorate often do not need to submit GRE scores. However, a Ph.D. in public health with no GRE requirement may need several years of work experience in the field.

Theology

A Ph.D. in theology prepares graduates for teaching roles in seminaries, colleges, and universities. Doctoral programs emphasize theological teaching and research. Students typically concentrate their training in an area like practical theology, the New Testament, or systematic theology.

Many Ph.D. programs in theology do not require a GRE. Applicants may need to hold a master’s degree in theology and provide letters of recommendation.


Top No GRE Ph.D. Online Degrees


1. Baker University

Located in Baldwin City, Kansas, Baker University’s students often find high-paying positions in their field. The storied university boasts a close connection with the United Methodist Church, though religious courses are not required for online Ph.D. students.

BU offers several online Ph.D. no GRE programs through its School of Education. Students can choose from a doctor of education in educational leadership, leadership in higher education, or instructional design and performance. All three options take as little as 59 credit hours and three years to complete, depending on the student’s previous education and career goals.

While BU does not set GRE requirements, applicants must hold a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 3.5 GPA.


2. Ball State University

One of Indiana’s leading public schools, Ball State University boasts one of the lowest tuition rates in the region, particularly for students who qualify for in-state tuition. Despite the university’s low cost, Ball State maintains a low 16-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio that extends to its online programs.

Instead of offering an online Ph.D. with no GRE requirements, Ball State hosts three Ed.D. and one Ed.S. degrees in a hybrid format. The three Ed.D. options in adult and community education, educational administration and supervision, and special education all primarily use online courses. Each degree requires around 90 credits to complete, though the university only requires students to complete half of the credits at Ball State.

Ball State charges a per-credit tuition rate for its online doctoral degree with no GRE, though most students receive some form of financial aid.


3. Bradley University

A mid-sized school, Bradley University offers an array of programs at every level. The university provides a quality education to its nearly 6,000 students in the greater Illinois area.

Bradley offers some programs doctoral programs online that do not require GRE scores, including a doctor of education in higher education administration. This program takes as few as seven months to complete, and students can finish the entire program online. Courses include doctoral research requirements and internships. Learners also select a focus in higher education leadership or community college leadership, each of which leads to specific career outcomes as postsecondary educators, administrators, or leaders.

Graduate students must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants also submit a short essay, a professional resume, and two letters of recommendation.


4. Concordia University-Irvine

A Lutheran school located in the Southern California city of Irvine, Concordia University-Irvine extends beyond its prime location with its online programs. Those interested in an online doctoral degree without GRE requirements can consider the doctor of education in leadership.

The Ed.D. in leadership requires 46 credits and takes three years to complete. Learners select a specialization in educational administration, organizational change, or special education. The program takes place entirely online in both synchronous and asynchronous formats, though learners can complete the degree in a hybrid format. CUI requires some fieldwork experience, which includes travel to education sites.

While students do not submit GRE scores, CUI does require a transcript proving a master’s in education, a current resume, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of intent. CUI charges a per-credit tuition rate to all online learners.


5. Concordia University-Saint Paul

Based in Minnesota’s Twin Cities, Concordia University-Saint Paul provides an affordable Christian education both on campus and online. CSP graduates regularly enjoy successful careers with nonprofits, large businesses, or entrepreneurial startups.

None of CSP’s online graduate programs require GRE scores, so students interested in the online doctorate in education can focus on other application requirements. The online Ed.D. uses a combination of synchronous and asynchronous courses and utilizes a cohort system. Learners complete 17 courses with 64 credits, with courses delivered in an accelerated, seven-week format.

Online learners must commute to the St. Paul campus for doctoral residencies on two occasions. CSP also assigns students a leadership coach to mentor learners throughout the program. Graduates of the doctorate in education go on to various leadership positions with public and private schools, nonprofits, and government organizations.


6. Creighton University

Omaha-based Creighton University is a Catholic institution and one of the top private schools in the region. Creighton offers some of the best graduate-level online programs. The Ph.D. options set no GRE requirements.

Students choose from six online doctoral degree options. Credit requirements range from 54-143 depending on the degree, and all options require at least some on-campus study. For example, the business administration doctoral program is offered in a hybrid format while the interdisciplinary leadership education degree is online, with some on-campus residency requirements.

Creighton’s online doctoral degrees use rolling admissions. Applicants must demonstrate professional experience in the desired field of study and submit a resume, two letters of recommendation, two essays, and previous college transcripts.


7. Endicott College

Located near Boston, on the water in Beverly, Massachusetts, Endicott College teaches over 5,000 students. Endicott focuses on preparing its graduates for specific careers and provides flexible learning options for busy students.

The college offers four doctoral programs online, including several no GRE Ph.D. programs. The degrees take as few as three years to complete, though many learners study part time and take longer to finish their programs. Endicott’s general doctoral admission requirements include a current resume, three letters of recommendation, and official transcripts. Some programs may require additional admission materials. Each doctoral program uses synchronous online courses along with some onsite clinical experience in Beverly.

All of Endicott’s online doctoral degrees use cohort groups of 15-20 students to build teamwork skills and connect students with one another. Busy adult learners can take advantage of Endicott’s accelerated one-week courses during the summer.


8. George Washington University

Located in the nation’s capital, George Washington University attracts learners from across the world and transforms students into leaders. GW boasts an impressive list of alumni, and the school’s extensive alumni network helps new graduates find positions within their fields.

Learners choose from an array of online doctoral programs, including Ph.D. no GRE options. Most of GW’s online options are in nursing and health science, though the university does offer doctoral degrees in systems engineering, engineering management, and occupational therapy. Each program sets different graduation requirements; for example, the Ph.D. in systems engineering requires 54 credits split between class-based courses and dissertation research. The program uses synchronous online courses, with the dissertation research being self-paced.

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s and master’s degree related to their field of study. GW requires a current resume and a minimum 3.5 GPA on previous college transcripts.


9. Georgia College & State University

Founded in 1889 as a women’s educational center, Georgia College now serves as a public liberal arts college. Located in Milledgeville, Georgia College provides students with a college town atmosphere just a short drive from Atlanta.

Georgia College applicants looking for Ph.D. programs with no GRE requirement can enroll in the nursing DNP. This online post-master’s program that takes just five semesters to complete. The program requires 37 credits, and aside from a one-week immersion experience, is delivered entirely online. Learners enter the online DNP once per year in the fall and enjoy a cohort system. Students can anticipate synchronous online courses.

While applicants do not submit GRE scores, the nursing DNP program does require an active RN license, verification of a completed MSN program, and several years of work experience as a nurse. Applicants also submit three letters of recommendation, a resume, previous college transcripts, and a statement of professional goals.


10. Gonzaga University

Located in Spokane, Washington, Gonzaga University provides students with a private, Jesuit education. The university continues to add new programs, and in recent years Gonzaga has begun offering some degrees entirely online.

Gonzaga only offers one online program for students looking for Ph.D. programs with no GRE: advanced nursing. The program offers incredible flexibility, delivering all courses online and providing students with online support six days a week. The program takes most students two years to complete. Learners must complete two immersions onsite in Spokane and 1,000 hours of practicum experience. Graduates of the program find leadership positions in healthcare systems.

As a post-master’s program, the DNP requires applicants first earn an MSN in nursing and hold an active RN license. Applicants also submit a resume, letters of recommendation, and previous transcripts.


11. Lewis University

Lewis University, a private, Catholic school based just southwest of Chicago, ranks among the best-valued private schools in the region. The midsized school teaches over 6,400 students.

The university offers 17 different programs entirely online, though only one option leads to a doctoral degree: the nursing DNP. This 30-credit program comes entirely online. Students must, however, complete at least 1000 residency hours and two one-day immersions onsite in Romeoville, Illinois. Most learners complete the program in two years, and Lewis arranges various forms of tuition assistance, including assistantships, employer discounts, and Illinois Organization of Nurse Leaders discounts.

While Lewis sets no GRE requirements for the program, applicants must first complete their MSN at an accredited school and hold a current RN license. Applicants also submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a 500-word personal essay.


12. Maryville University of Saint Louis

While based in Saint Louis, Maryville University is a prominent online school, with over half of its 10,200 students learning online. The university offers most of its programs entirely online, including several no GRE doctoral programs.

Students interested in completing a doctoral degree online can choose the doctor of education in higher education leadership. The program utilizes a cohort system, keeping students on track while connecting them with fellow learners. While the program requires a residency, Maryville allows students to finish their residency entirely online. Full-time students in the education leadership program graduate in as few as 32 months.

To help learners achieve their goals, Maryville pairs students with a personal mentor. Maryville also lets students complete their coursework and dissertation research at the same time, making this program faster to complete than others.


13. Mount Carmel College of Nursing

Founded in 1903, Mount Carmel College of Nursing offers a Catholic-rooted education to nursing students at all levels. With locations in Columbus and Lancaster, Ohio, and several options online, MCCN helps nurses across the nation achieve their career goals.

MCCN offers one online doctoral degree option: a DNP. Learners select a track in clinical practice or executive leadership. MCCN allows students to specialize even further through specializations in clinical practice, healthcare, or academic nursing. All courses in the program come online, and graduates qualify for the national EBP certification. Full-time students finish the program in just 18 months.

This program does not require GRE scores, though applicants should hold an active RN license in Ohio before applying. Application requires a resume, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and an interview. MCCN charges a flat per-credit tuition fee for all courses in the program.


14. Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health

A private healthcare college based in Omaha, Nebraska Methodist College educates just over 1,100 learners. NMC takes a holistic approach to nursing and healthcare, teaching students to become effective community leaders.

Doctoral students looking to avoid the GRE can choose between two of NMC’s online options: education and leadership in healthcare or public health policy. Both programs use online classes designed to give learners maximum flexibility. Full-time students finish either option in just 24 months. Along with not setting any GRE requirements, NMC does not require students to complete a dissertation for either program.

Both doctoral options require applicants to first earn a master’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, preferably in a healthcare field. Other application requirements include a resume, admissions essay, and potentially an interview.


15. Quinnipiac University

Quinnipiac University embraced online learning in 2001, helping students complete coursework without commuting to campus. The university has built on that experience and now offers a robust collection of online degrees.

Both online doctoral degrees offered by Quinnipiac — the DNP and occupational therapy doctorate — do not require any GRE scores. However, they only accept current licensed professionals in their fields who hold a master’s degree. Learners complete at least 30 credits to finish the doctoral programs. Specific requirements depend on previous credits earned. All courses are offered online, with students earning clinical experience onsite at a location of their choice. Some learners study near Quinnipiac’s campus in Hamden, Connecticut.

Applicants must complete at least 1,000 hours of fieldwork — some of which can come from applicants’ master’s degrees — and submit a current resume. Other requirements include a current license, transcripts, and a personal statement.


16. Regis College

Founded in 1927, Regis College offers a Catholic-based education to 3,000 students both online and at its Boston campus. The college offers online programs meant to prepare students for in-demand careers in fields like healthcare, education, and business.

Regis’ online DNP sets no GRE requirements and gives students four tracks of study to choose from: an MSN-to-DNP with a specialization, a second specialization route, a doctorate online, and an MSN-DNP bridge option. All four use online courses, though specializations require learners to earn clinical experience onsite at healthcare facilities. Some specialization options include pediatrics, nurse education, and psychiatric mental health.

DNP students usually graduate in 24-36 months, though Regis allows learners to take up to 44 months to complete the degree. Regis also accepts transfer credits from other regionally accredited institutions. Applicants must submit college transcripts, a resume, two professional essays, and two letters of recommendation.


17. Regis University

A Jesuit university located in Denver, Colorado, Regis University serves as one of the top private schools in the region. Regis combines Catholic values with education, emphasizing service-based learning, and the importance of helping the global community.

The university offers two online doctoral degrees with no GRE requirements: a DNP and a doctor of occupational therapy. The DNP takes 31-36 credits to complete, and Regis charges the same per-credit rate to part- and full-time learners. The school offers specializations in advanced leadership in healthcare and advanced practice registered nursing. Specific graduation requirements vary depending on the specialization. Regis works with Creighton University for the doctor of occupational therapy, and learners apply for the program through Creighton.

Applicants for both programs should first complete a master’s degree, gain ample professional experience, and hold a current license in their field. Other requirements include a minimum 3.0 GPA and a background check.


18. The College of Saint Scholastica

With online options and locations across Minnesota, the College of Saint Scholastica provides students plenty of ways to earn a degree. In fact, graduate learners make up over one-third of the total student body.

Those looking to earn an online Ph.D. with no GRE requirements enroll in the transitional doctor of physical therapy. This innovative program offers options for foreign-trained physical therapists, and nearly 25% of CSS’ online doctoral students come from abroad. The doctor of physical therapy only requires 16 credits spread over just six courses, and students complete everything online. CSS charges a flat tuition rate for the entire program, so part-time learners do not pay more.

Applicants must first hold a master’s degree in physical therapy and earn professional experience. Next, applicants submit a personal essay and previous college transcripts.


19. Thomas Edison State University

Located in Trenton, New Jersey, Thomas Edison State University began as a school designed specifically for working adults. Today, the public school continues to offer quality programs to learners of all ages.

TESU offers a doctor of nursing practice and doctor of business administration, both of which come entirely online and set no GRE requirements. The programs use a cohort system, and learners receive one-on-one mentorship from TESU leadership. The 48-credit business administration degree comes with specialization in organizational leadership, human resource management, or general management. Students complete the program in as few as 32 months. The DNP takes just 18 months to complete full-time, and TESU accepts some transfer credits for the program.

Both doctoral degrees require learners to hold a master’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA in a related field. Other application requirements include personal essays, transcripts, professional experience, and an interview with TESU faculty.


20. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign educates thousands of students on campus and online. The school currently offers over 90 programs entirely online, and students from around the world complete courses.

U of I offers eight doctoral programs online, including a doctoral human resource development program. This 64-credit Ph.D. with no GRE requirements teaches the skills necessary to become leaders within their organizations. Designed for current HR professionals, the degree includes some onsite training and development. However, the vast majority of course materials are offered online.

Application requirements vary by program, but all eight online doctoral degrees require some professional experience, and most only accept applicants with a master’s degree in a related field.


21. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota is the largest university in ND with over 13,500 students enrolled. UND boasts some of the lowest in-state tuition rates in the nation, and classes average just 24 students each.

Students choose from 12 different online doctoral programs, and those include Ph.D. with no GRE options. For example, the Ph.D. in Indigenous studies does not require GRE scores, though applicants should hold a master’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. The program requires 60 credits and takes three years to complete. Students can take every course in the program online.

Other online doctoral options at UND with no GRE requirements include nursing, occupational therapy, teaching and leadership, and petroleum engineering.


22. University of Southern California

One of the best public research universities in the West, the University of Southern California attracts top talent and prepares graduates to succeed in their careers. USC’s quality extends to learners across the country through its online programs.

Learners choose from an array of online graduate programs, such as the doctor of education in educational leadership. This doctoral program with no GRE requirements helps current educational professionals at the K-12 levels become leaders within their organization. Learners complete four components, including courses and a dissertation. USC requires a two-day immersion onsite in Los Angeles, though students complete the rest of the three-year program online.

Those interested in USC’s online doctoral degrees must submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal essays, and a resume. While USC sets no GRE requirements, some applicants may benefit from submitting test scores.


23. University of St. Francis

Based in Joliet, Illinois, the University of St. Francis recently celebrated 100 years of education excellence. The small school teaches under 4,000 students total, and it harbors fewer than 300 graduate students. However, USF still offers two online doctoral degree programs for professionals looking to continue their education.

Neither the online DNP nor doctor of education in educational leadership require GRE scores, though applicants must hold a master’s degree in their field. Both programs utilize online education with some onsite requirements. USF also stresses flexibility for both programs. The doctor in educational leadership, for example, comes with two concentrations: superintendent endorsement or leadership, learning, and stewardship.

Both online doctoral programs take roughly three years to complete, though specific program lengths vary. Applicants should hold a minimum 3.0 GPA on undergraduate and graduate transcripts and must interview with USF faculty.


24. Villanova University

Founded in 1842, Villanova University blends its Catholic tradition with modern educational techniques. The mid-sized school hosts nearly 11,000 students, and its location near Philadelphia helps students and graduates secure internships and jobs. Those that choose to earn a degree online benefit from Villanova’s extensive alumni network.

Villanova’s doctoral nursing program, a Ph.D. with no GRE requirements, comes entirely online. Villanova offers courses in the program synchronously, and new learners must commute to campus for two-three weeks during the summer. Aside from these requirements, Villanova’s Ph.D. in nursing offers incredible flexibility.

To avoid submitting GRE scores, applicants to Villanova must hold a master’s degree related to their field. Other admission requirements include a personal essay, interview with faculty, a valid RN license, and evidence of scholarly writing.


25. Wilkes University

A small school located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, Wilkes University provides learners with low classroom sizes and plenty of personal attention. Students benefit from direct instruction, hands-on learning, and flexible learning options, including Wilkes’ online doctoral degrees.

Wilkes’ two online doctoral programs with no GRE requirements — a DNP and a doctor of education — both require applicants to first complete a master’s degree. The doctoral programs require learners to commute to campus for onsite residencies, though students complete most courses entirely online. Each degree uses a cohort system, meaning students must study synchronously with fellow students. Learners usually graduate in 2-3 years.

The two programs differ in cost, with Wilkes charging separate per-credit tuition rates for each degree. Both options require applicants to submit previous transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of licensure/professional certification.