Details of the New Hybrid PhD Program

When researching colleges or universities for quality graduate programs, prospective students should consider whether an online or on-campus program would best serve their needs. A new trend in higher education is a mixture of both. This type of "hybrid" program combines online learning with intensive on-campus coursework, allowing students to continue full time careers while earning their PhD. This article will examine some of the features of hybrid PhD programs, using a Michigan State University program as a model.

What is a Hybrid PhD Program?
Several universities have begun offering a hybrid PhD program. Michigan State University (MSU), for example, has taught its Educational Psychology and Educational Technology hybrid PhD program since the summer of 2010. The program combines elements of online learning with in-person coursework over a five year span.

Typically, the coursework starts with a two-week, on-campus element allowing students to bond as a cohort and establish themselves in the program. At MSU the program continues with full-time, online learning courses for the remainder of the summer. In the fall and spring semesters, doctoral students only take one course online. This process continues throughout the five year program.

The Benefits
Most students of a hybrid program prefer the program because they can remain employed at their full time jobs. Whether a principal, teacher, or other professional, a hybrid program caters to the middle career worker. The schedule provides flexibility, allowing teachers to attend part-time in the fall and spring. Those courses are online, reducing the time required for commuting to campus.

Application Advice
Applicants to hybrid programs need to plan in advance. Most programs cut off applications by December 1 for courses beginning the following summer. A hybrid program applicant must also take and score highly on the GRE exam, especially on the analytic writing portion, so plan to take it in plenty of time for submitting scores to meet the deadline.

Other Hybrid Programs
MSU is not the only university to institute a hybrid PhD program. These include:
Oregon State University for a PhD in Counseling
Leslie University for a PhD in Adult Learning Specialization
University of Southern Mississippi for various doctoral programs

The doctoral hybrid program has established itself as a successful way for professionals to obtain an advanced degree without attending full time. It allows students the flexibility they seek while incorporating both online learning and face-to-face interactions.

What do you think about the hybrid PhD program initiative?