Numerous online schools offer Ph.D. programs to those who qualify. Usually applicants possess a Master’s degree or other relevant coursework. Typically, Ph.D. programs require candidates to enroll in small seminars and/or independent studies. Once all coursework is complete, candidates are required to pass written and/or oral qualifying exams. Following the successful completion of qualifying exams, candidates must then submit and defend a dissertation of original scholarly research. The whole degree program generally takes between 4 and 6 years.