Online PhD Canada (2026): Verified Programs, Costs and Funding
Compare online doctorate programs in Canada, including the shortest routes and no-dissertation options
Are you searching for best Online PhD Program in Canada ? Here at Best Online Doctoral Programs we present the verified hybrid and doctoral programs offered by Canadian universities. You can explore and compare online PhD Canada options, including funding, completion timeline, and the fastest and shortest PhD programs in Canada, as well as no-dissertation doctorate options where they exist.
Most of the online doctoral programs offered by Canadian universities are professional doctorates such as the EdD and DBA. This does not mean that online PhD programs in Canada are unavailable. Several Online Research PhD degree programs in Canada in fields such as Nursing and Social Work. As well as ,most of the other traditional PhD programs are offered on campus or hybrid, although some departments offer flexible online options. Online doctorate programs in Canada, on the other hand, are available fully online or with short residencies.
In addition, you can also find the shortest and fastest professional doctorates and Online PhD Programs in Canada. And the honest answer about 1 year PhD programs online in Canada. For French Readers, we added a short section about doctorat à distance au Canada as well.
- Fully online research PhDs are uncommon. Most online options are professional doctorates (EdD, DBA, Doctor of Social Sciences).
- "Online" often includes short in-person parts, from a 1-week orientation to residencies of up to three weeks.
- Canada has no national accreditation system, so check that the institution is authorized by its province.
Editorial Note
Last Verified and Updated: October 2026
Every program detail on this page was checked against the university’s own program, calendar or admissions page in October 2026. We publish what each school states about delivery, length and cost, and we leave out programs we cannot verify. Universities change intakes, fees and residency dates, so treat this page as a shortlist and use the official links to confirm before you apply. Best Online Doctoral Programs is an independent resource; see our advertising disclosure for how the site is funded
Researched & Written by Adan Abbasi— Visit Author Page
Table of Contents
What Should You Know Before Choosing an Online PhD in Canada?
Before moving ahead it's better to answer the question Why I should choose an online doctoral program in Canada?
Research PhDs and professional doctorates Online in Canada
In Canada universities offer mostly professional doctorates, plus some research PhDs. Most online options are EdD, DBA or Doctor of Social Sciences programs. Online research PhDs exist in nursing, social work and rural and northern health.”
Short in-person parts:.
“Online” often includes short in-person parts: a 1-week orientation at Athabasca, two three-week residencies at Royal Roads, a two-week summer residency at Calgary, and two one-month July classes in the Brock/Lakehead/Windsor Joint PhD.
About three years at minimum:
The shortest verified routes take about three years. One year Online PhD Programs or 12 months Distance learning Doctorate programs are not available. for accelerated programs fastest online PhD and doctorate programs hub for more.
No national accreditation:
In Canada there is no single Accreditation National Authority for Doctorate and PhD Online Degree Programs. Canadian degree-granting power is legally authorized through provincial Acts and legislative charters.
Start with your field and how much travel you can manage. The online and distance programs we could verify in Canada are mostly in education and business. If you work in nursing, psychology, IT or criminal justice, check the subject table below, ask the department about flexible research PhD options, and see our online PhD programs by subject hub for options in other countries.
Why Choose an Online PhD in Canada?
- Globally Respected Degrees – Online PhD and doctorate programs offered by established Canadian universities are widely recognized, and Canadian universities generally recognize one another's credentials.
- Ideal for International Students – Fully Online Doctorate Programs in Canada, offers you the flexibility to earn your doctoral degree without relocating to Canada. However, Programs with a residency may need a visitor visa or study permit depending on length and nationality. (See the international student's section)
- Online & Distance Learning – Online and blended doctoral programs offer flexibility to study from where you live, though several include short on-campus residencies.
- Funding & Scholarships – Funding exists, mostly for full-time research PhDs. Part-time professional doctorates are usually funded by the student or an employer (see the funding section).
- No GRE Required – The admission pages we reviewed for Athabasca, Western and the University of Saskatchewan do not list the GRE or GMAT. Confirm on the current admission page for your program.
- Capstone/Project Options – Some programs use applied formats such as a Dissertation in Practice. You still complete and defend research.
Online PhD Canada Options We Verified: Which Universities Offer Them?
For your review and ease we list some of the online distance-friendly doctoral programs offered by Canadian University, we confirmed on official pages. Please note this list is not exhaustive and many Canadian Universities .
The program list covers the online and distance doctoral programs we could confirm on official university pages, in education, business, nursing, social work, rural and northern health and pharmacy. In fields such as clinical psychology, computer science and engineering, the programs we reviewed are on campus. Some departments may allow flexible arrangements case by case, so ask the graduate coordinator.
Online PhD Programs in Canada (Research Doctorates)
| University | Program | Delivery | In-person part | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UBC Okanagan | PhD in Nursing | Fully online: live seminars plus online courses | A residency rule exists; an "Engagement Requirement" can replace it | Full-time 48 months, part-time 72. Needs a graduate health degree and nursing registration |
| University of New Brunswick | PhD in Nursing (new in 2026) | Online using distance technology | Two 3-day residencies in Fredericton in Year 1 | For registered nurses with graduate education |
| University of Alberta | PhD in Nursing | Mix of online and in-person; distance students get priority for online sections | No minimum residence; any campus time is agreed with your supervisor | Normally full-time |
| University of Saskatchewan | PhD in Nursing | Distance education with live (synchronous) online courses | About two weeks in Saskatoon | Confirm current details on the program page |
| University of Ottawa | PhD in Nursing, distance option | Listed in the 2026–27 catalogue | Confirm with the program | In-person PhD admission is suspended; check distance admission |
| Wilfrid Laurier University | PhD in Social Work | Virtual and live; first cohort May 2026 | Multi-day orientation in Kitchener | Intake starts each May |
| University of Windsor | PhD in Social Work | Live online courses | 2–3 day orientation plus 1–2 days of workshops each fall | Courses scheduled on Central/Eastern time |
| Laurentian University | PhD in Rural and Northern Health | Live remote delivery, "study from anywhere" | None listed | Some electives in French |
| Brock, Lakehead, Windsor | Joint PhD in Educational Studies | Face-to-face seminars plus distance education | Two one-month classes in July | See the program handbook for length |
| Université Laval | Doctorat en technologie éducative | Evening and distance courses, in French | State in your letter if you want it fully at a distance | Research doctorate |
Online Doctorate Programs in Canada (Professional Doctorates)
| University | Program | Delivery | In-person part | Length | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario Tech | EdD | Fully online (live classes) | None listed | About 3 years | Thesis |
| Western | EdD | Fully online | None listed | 3 years | Dissertation in Practice |
| Athabasca | EdD | Online | 1-week orientation | 4–5 years | CAD $57,024 |
| Athabasca | DBA | Online | 1-week workshop yearly, years 1–3 | 3–7 years | MBA plus 5 years' experience |
| Calgary | EdD | Blended | Two-week summer residency | Up to 6 years | Thesis-based |
| Saskatchewan | EdD | Hybrid | Summer courses: 2, 2 and 1 weeks | 3 years | CAD $37,765 |
| Royal Roads | Doctor of Social Sciences | Blended | Two 3-week residencies | About 4 years | CAD $89,464 (reported) |
| Royal Roads | DBA | Blended | Three residencies | 4–7 years | Check intake |
| University of Toronto | PharmD for Pharmacists | Almost all coursework online | 1 week plus a weekend in Toronto, and two rotations | Up to 4 years allowed | For pharmacists with a pharmacy bachelor's |
Best Online PhD & Doctorate Programs in Canada (2026): What Does Each University Offer?
For your review and comparison here below a Quick Snap Shot of different Online PhD and Doctorate Programs in Canada and universities offerings.
Online Nursing PhDs Canada
- UBC Okanagan: offers fully online PhD in Nursing Programs in Canada. Full-time takes 48 months and part-time 72. A residency rule applies, but students can apply to replace it with an Engagement Requirement. The application deadline is January 15, 2027.
- University of New Brunswick: a new PhD in Nursing (announced May 2026), delivered online with two three-day residencies in Fredericton in Year 1 and an annual Nursing Research Day. The application Deadline is January 2027
- University of Alberta: a mix of online and in-person delivery, with priority access to online sections for distance students outside Edmonton. The Application Deadline is January 06, 2027.
- University of Saskatchewan: offers its nursing PhD by distance education with live online courses and about two weeks in Saskatoon, according to the college's graduate presentation. The Application Deadline is February 03,2027.
- University of Ottawa: lists a distance option for its PhD in Nursing in the 2026–27 catalogue - Full-time status, spanning 12 full-time terms (48 consecutive months). The Application Deadline is January 15th,2027
Online Social Work and Health PhDs
- Wilfrid Laurier University (PhD in Social Work): Laurier's first virtual, live doctoral program. It starts each May with a multi-day in-person orientation in Kitchener, and coursework. OUAC Application Deadline (Step 1): October 13, 2026 - Supplemental Documentation & References Due (Step 2): November 3, 2026
- University of Windsor (PhD in Social Work): courses are delivered live online on Central/Eastern time, with a 2 to 3 day orientation and 1 to 2 days of workshops each fall. The application deadline is Friday, January 15, 2027.
- Laurentian University (PhD in Rural and Northern Health): Canada's only PhD dedicated to rural and northern health, delivered by live remote sessions so you can study from anywhere. Some electives are available in French. the application deadline for the upcoming September 2027 intake is January 29, 2027
Online Pharmacy Doctorate for Practicing Pharmacists
The University of Toronto's PharmD for Pharmacists is a bridging program for pharmacists with a pharmacy bachelor's degree. Almost all coursework can be done online, but you must spend one week in Toronto at the start, attend a weekend for the physical assessment course and complete two direct patient care rotations. You have up to four years. The program is closing: the last application cycle runs from November 1, 2026 to February 1, 2027. Memorial University's similar program took its final intake in Fall 2025.
Online Education Doctorates Canada
- Ontario Tech University: EdD Program is a fully online program in live, interactive virtual classes over three years.
- Western University (EdD): Another fully Online EdD Program in Canada. The program has three years of completion time with (nine consecutive terms) ending in a Dissertation in Practice. Western also offers an EdD in Applied Behavior Analysis.
- Athabasca University (EdD in Distance Education): paced online courses with a required one-week on-site orientation, four to five years, one small cohort a year (deadline January 31, 2027, for May start).
- University of Calgary (EdD): online coursework with a two-week summer residency (2027: July 5–16), thesis-based, up to six years with coursework in the first three. Residency lectures cannot be attended online.
- University of Saskatchewan (EdD in Educational Leadership): a three-year hybrid cohort with online fall and winter courses and in-person summer courses (two weeks in years 1 and 2, one week in year 3).
- Brock, Lakehead and Windsor (Joint PhD in Educational Studies): a research PhD with three fields of study, using seminars and distance education, with two one-month in-person classes in July.
Online Business Doctorates (DBA) Canada
- Athabasca University (DBA): a 21-credit online program with a one-week research workshop in Edmonton once a year in years 1 to 3. It can take as little as three years and must be finished within seven years.
- Royal Roads University (DBA): a 60-credit blended program with three on-campus residencies, usually four to seven years. Seats are limited, For the January 2027 Intake: January 4, 2027 (with applications opening well in advance and reviews rolling
Online Social Sciences Doctorate Canada
Royal Roads University (Doctor of Social Sciences): online courses plus two three-week residencies on campus, usually four years, ending in a traditional or portfolio dissertation. Third-party listings report CAD $89,464 for the full program; confirm on Royal Roads' tuition page.
French-Language Distance Doctorate Options in Canada
Université Laval: a doctorate in educational technology with evening and distance courses in French. TÉLUQ: a fully distance French-language university; See the French section below.
If any website promises a "100% online PhD from a top Canadian university" with no residency, no supervisor and a fixed low price, treat it with suspicion. Check the university's own program page before you pay anything.
Online Doctorate Programs Canada: Which Subject Fits You (PhD, EdD, Nursing, Social Work, DBA, Psychology, IT)?
It is far easier to choose the right online doctoral program if you know your career goals, and the first step is to choose the right subject for your doctorate or PhD online. For a quick review, here are some of the best online PhD and doctorate programs in Canada offered by established universities.
For more options and details, check our online PhD and doctorate by subject page, where you will find a comprehensive list of online doctoral programs offered in Canada and other countries.
| Doctorate Type | Typical Audience | Delivery in Canada | Example Universities / Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| PhD (research) | Academic researchers in various fields | Online or distance options in some fields; most other PhDs are on campus or hybrid | Nursing, social work and rural and northern health (see below); Joint PhD in Educational Studies (Brock, Lakehead, Windsor) |
| EdD (Doctor of Education) | Experienced educators seeking applied research | Fully online / Blended | Ontario Tech, Western (fully online); Calgary, Saskatchewan (blended); Athabasca (online). See online doctoral degrees in education |
| Nursing (PhD) | Nurse leaders, educators and researchers | Online or distance research PhDs; we did not find an online DNP | UBC Okanagan (fully online), New Brunswick, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ottawa (distance option). See nursing PhD and DNP online programs |
| Social Work (PhD) | Social work practitioners and researchers | Live online delivery with short in-person parts | Wilfrid Laurier, Windsor |
| Rural and Northern Health (PhD) | Health researchers and administrators | Live remote delivery | Laurentian University |
| Pharmacy (PharmD) | Practicing pharmacists | Almost all coursework online; the program is closing | University of Toronto (final applications Nov 2026 to Feb 2027); Memorial (closed) |
| DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) | Senior managers / executives | Online / Blended | Athabasca DBA (online), Royal Roads DBA (blended). See online doctoral programs in business |
| PsyD / Psychology Doctorates | Psychology professionals; clinical or applied research | Mostly on-campus for clinical and counselling programs | We did not find a fully online psychology doctorate in Canada. See online PhD in psychology programs |
| Criminal Justice / Related Fields | Law enforcement, criminology researchers | Usually campus-based research PhDs; delivery varies | Check each program. See criminal justice PhD online |
| IT / Technology | Technical professionals, academic researchers | Mostly campus or hybrid; we found no dedicated online professional doctorate | Confirm with the department. See online PhD in information technology |
A gap in Canada does not mean the subject is unavailable online elsewhere. Our subject hub lists online doctorates in the same fields from universities in other countries.
Fully Funded Online PhD Programs in Canada: What's Realistic?
Most funding for doctoral programs in Canada, including online PhD and doctorate programs, comes through the three federal research agencies (SSHRC, NSERC and CIHR) and university assistantships. These awards mostly support recognized research programs, and they depend strictly on merit, eligibility and program structure.
Online PhD and doctorate scholarship and funding in Canada, in overview:
- Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral (CGRS-D): the consolidated Tri-Agency funding program for doctoral students, worth $40,000 a year for 36 months. Eligibility is counted in months of full-time study, and two part-time terms count as one full-time term. International students may apply if registered in a doctoral program at an eligible Canadian institution.
- University scholarships / assistantships: offered by major research universities; the mode of study (online or on-campus) must fit department policy. USask says funding comes from a limited number of scholarships and assistantships, and Calgary says EdD students may be eligible for some internal and external scholarships.
- Part-time and online nursing PhDs: UBC Okanagan says full-time PhD students are eligible for minimum funding, while part-time students are expected to be self-funded and may not be eligible for funding or scholarships.
- Employer sponsorship: common for EdD and DBA candidates, who usually keep working while they study.
- Graduate assistantships: teaching or research roles with tuition waivers and stipends, mostly for campus-based research PhDs.
- There is no blanket "fully funded online PhD Canada" scheme. Funding is tied to the program and to student eligibility.
Most tri-agency awards are built around full-time doctoral study at a Canadian institution. If you plan to study part-time while working, assume the major scholarships may not apply, and ask the awards office before you rely on one.
Many programs do not list the GRE, and some allow a Dissertation in Practice instead of a traditional dissertation. For more, see our scholarships and funding for online doctorate programs hub and the guide to fully funded online PhD and doctorate programs.
Are Online PhD Programs in Canada Accredited?
One most important factor and one very important question to ask whether Online PhD Programs in Canada are accredited? The answer is different from the USA and many other countries around the world, as Canada has no national accreditation system and the higher education is provincial responsibility. And the universities generally receive degree-granting authority from provincial legislation, and provincial quality assurance bodies review programs.
- The useful question is whether the institution is authorized to grant degrees by its province or territory.
- Universities Canada states that it is not a national accreditation body and describes a multi-layered system of institutional and provincial review.
- The BC transfer system notes that Canadian jurisdictions do not normally use the term "accredited" for provincially authorized institutions, except in limited circumstances.
- Some units hold professional accreditation. For example, Athabasca's Faculty of Business holds AACSB accreditation, which applies to its business school only
Use the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC), which explains quality assurance province by province, and confirm the school's degree-granting authority on its own website.
Can International Students Apply for an Online PhD in Canada?
Yes, for programs that admit them, subject to admission and immigration rules. The University of Saskatchewan, for instance, lists the same EdD tuition for Canadian and international students and states that students are responsible for the correct immigration permits for the in-person summer courses.
- 100% online, no in-person component: Canadian immigration guidance says a study permit cannot be issued for distance learning that does not require you to be in Canada.
- Online with an in-Canada part (a residency or workshop): if the overall course of study is longer than six months, a study permit may be needed for the in-Canada portion, even if that portion is short. Depending on your nationality, you may also need a visitor visa or an eTA to travel.
mmigration rules change. Before applying to a program with a residency, check the current Government of Canada study permit rules and ask the university's international office what it advises for your nationality.
What do the doctoral programs in Canada ask for?
Experience requirements are often stricter than people expect:
What do the programs ask for? Experience requirements are often stricter than people expect:
| Program | Key published admission requirements |
|---|---|
| Athabasca EdD | Relevant master's degree, normally GPA 3.7 or 85%; significant open or distance learning experience; January 31 application deadline |
| Athabasca DBA | MBA or equivalent master's degree and at least 5 years of managerial or professional experience |
| Ontario Tech EdD | Research project or thesis-based master's in education or a closely related subject (a course-based master's can be considered with evidence of research ability); minimum B+ average (3.3 on a 4.3 scale); a commitment from a thesis supervisor; statement of academic intent, CV, two letters of reference and a writing sample. If English is not your first language: IELTS Academic 7.0, or the TOEFL iBT minimum listed by Ontario Tech (overall 92 for tests before January 21, 2026; overall 5.0 on the new scale after) |
| Western EdD | Master's in education or related field; 3 years of full-time work experience |
| Calgary EdD | Course- or thesis-based master's in an appropriate field; minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale in the master's; admission portfolio encouraged, especially without a thesis-based master's; English proficiency if English is not your first language (IELTS 7.0, TOEFL iBT 97 or CAEL 70) |
| University of Saskatchewan EdD | Master's with at least 70% weighted average; 5 years of educational leadership experience; portfolio; interview |
| Royal Roads Doctor of Social Sciences | Normally a master's in a social science or related field; related experience; applied, interdisciplinary research proposal |
| Royal Roads DBA | Recognized master's degree; normally 7 years of relevant full-time experience, 5 at management level; competitive, limited seats |
| Nursing PhD (UBC Okanagan) | Master's in nursing or a health-related discipline with clear research ability; Canadian students must hold nursing registration in BC or another province; international students must meet BC nurse registration eligibility; January 15 deadline |
| Wilfrid Laurier PhD in Social Work | Master of Social Work or equivalent; May start; mandatory in-person orientation (international students may need an eTA or visa for it) |
Which Online PhD and Doctorate Programs in Canada Suit Working Professionals?
Most of the programs we listed on this page are designed to suit the requirements of working professionals wanting to continue their jobs while working. Western's and Ontario Tech's EdD are fully online; Athabasca's EdD and DBA are online with a short yearly on-site component, and Royal Roads, Calgary and the University of Saskatchewan combine online study with residencies.
And They also expect a career behind you. Western asks for three years of full-time work experience, Saskatchewan for five years of educational leadership experience, Athabasca's DBA for five years of managerial or professional experience, and Royal Roads' DBA for normally seven years of relevant experience, five at management level.
- Class times matte : Ontario Tech describes its classes synchronous, so you log in at set times. Check the time zone against your work schedule, especially if you live outside Canada.
- Residencies need leave: You must consider scheduling your professional responsibilities as you have to three weeks away from work to fulfill residency requirements as well it is recommended plan for the expenses you have to incur for travelling and accomodation.
- Ask about sponsorship early. Athabasca asks for a Letter of Guarantee when an employer sponsors tuition.
Mark your residency dates and class times in your work calendar for the full length of Programs and plan your activities accordingly.
Cheapest Online PhD Programs Canada: How Do You Compare Costs?
Many public universities in Canada offer lower tuition fees, and the cheapest online PhD and doctorate programs in Canada depend on the program, your residency status and how long you take.
To identify the cheapest online PhD Canada Programs, compare:
- Domestic vs international tuition (USask lists the same amount for both)
- Program fees vs per-credit or per-course pricing, and continuation fees
- Residency travel costs for hybrid programs
- Scholarships or funding offsets, and employer sponsorship
Published costs we could verify, in Canadian dollars (always confirm on the current fee page):
| Program | Published cost (CAD) | How it is structured |
|---|---|---|
| Athabasca University EdD | $57,024 total | Fee schedule effective Sep 1, 2026 to Aug 31, 2027: yearly program fee of $5,649 plus $5,738 per course; at least 12 program installments are payable even if you finish early |
| University of Saskatchewan EdD | $37,765 total | Assessed over 10 terms; the same amount is listed for Canadian and international students; student fees are extra |
| Ontario Tech EdD | About $10,500 a year | Anticipated flat annual fee for 2025–26, as stated on the program's application page; check the university's tuition page for the current rate |
| Royal Roads Doctor of Social Sciences | $89,464 total (reported) | Third-party listings report one flat total for domestic and international students. We could not see it on a Royal Roads page, so confirm on its tuition page |
| Athabasca DBA, Royal Roads DBA, Western, Calgary | Check the official fee page | We did not confirm a single total on the pages reviewed, so we do not estimate one |
Shortest PhD Programs Online in Canada: What's Possible?
Online PhD programs in Canada are typically longer and often require four to six years or more to complete. If you want the shortest and fastest option, you can enroll in a professional doctorate with a fixed timeline. Traditional Canadian PhDs typically last 4–6+ years, so for the shortest doctoral pathway online, look at professional doctorates with fixed timelines:
- Ontario Tech EdD — fully online, about 3 years
- Western University EdD — fully online, 3 years (Dissertation-in-Practice model)
- University of Saskatchewan EdD — hybrid, 3 years
- Athabasca DBA — online, as little as 3 years (up to 7)
- Calgary EdD — blended, structured cohort, up to 6 years (first three are coursework)
- Athabasca EdD — paced online courses, 4–5 years, with a 1-week orientation
- Royal Roads DSocSci — blended, usually 4 years
These professional doctorates have the same rigorous coursework and research expectations as other Canadian doctorates but are designed to meet the needs of working professionals.
Most tri-agency awards are built around full-time doctoral study at a Canadian institution. If you plan to study part-time while working, assume the major scholarships may not apply, and ask the awards office before you rely on one.
Is There a 1 Year PhD Program Online in Canada?
The Anwer is NO, among all the programs we verified, there is no 1 Year PhD degree program online in Canada. The shortest Online PhD in Canada timeline published for a online doctoral program in Canada is about three years. The Canadian Doctoral Programs Online are structured: Coursework, a candidacy or comprehensive exam, original research and a defend dissertation does not match one year online doctoral degree programs pathway..
The Anwer is NO, among all the programs we verified, there is no 1 Year PhD degree program online in Canada. The shortest Online PhD in Canada timeline published for a online doctoral program in Canada is about three years. The Canadian Doctoral Programs Online are structured: Coursework, a candidacy or comprehensive exam, original research and a defend dissertation does not match one year online doctoral degree programs pathway..
So why do so many pages claim a one-year doctorate in Canada? Usually because of one of these:
- Programs from other countries that market an accelerated doctorate
- A master's or graduate diploma described as one year, then confused with a doctorate.
- "Fast-track" offers from providers that are not authorized to grant degrees in Canada.
Be careful with any page promising a Canadian doctorate in 12 months. The realistic shortest route is a three-year professional doctorate such as the Western or Ontario Tech EdD, where you are admitted into a cohort and complete supervised research.
No-Dissertation Online Doctorate Canada: What Should You Expect?
To make online doctoral programs easier for working professionals, some Canadian universities replace the traditional dissertation with applied research projects, portfolios or Dissertation in Practice formats. This shift in format can make online doctorate programs shorter and more practical, although you still complete and defend research.
| Program | Delivery | Dissertation Alternative | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western University EdD | Fully online | Dissertation in Practice | 3-year doctorate designed for practitioner impact |
| University of Calgary EdD | Blended | Thesis-based; may include a program evaluation, policy report, program design, curriculum or validated assessment measure | Applied formats allowed within a dissertation |
| Royal Roads DSocSci | Blended | Traditional or portfolio dissertation | You still complete candidacy exams |
| Ontario Tech EdD | Fully online | Thesis (course-based with a thesis) | Professionally oriented program |
| Athabasca EdD and DBA | Online | Dissertation after a candidacy exam | Research-based |
Doctorat à distance au Canada : quelles options en français?
Si vous cherchez un doctorat à distance au Canada en français, l'offre est plus restreinte qu'en anglais, mais elle existe. L'Université Laval propose un doctorat en technologie éducative dont les cours sont offerts les soirs de semaine et à distance, en mode synchrone ou asynchrone. Les personnes qui souhaitent suivre le programme entièrement à distance doivent le préciser dans leur lettre de présentation. Selon l'Université Laval, ce doctorat est le seul offert en français au Canada dans ce domaine.
Pour un choix plus large de doctorats à distance, regardez aussi l'Université TÉLUQ, qui se présente comme la seule université francophone en Amérique du Nord à offrir tous ses cours à distance. Vérifiez directement sur son site quels programmes de doctorat sont ouverts à l'admission, car nous n'avons pas pu confirmer la liste à jour au moment de la rédaction.
Un doctorat à distance au Canada n'est pas toujours entièrement en ligne. Vérifiez auprès de l'université la langue d'enseignement, les exigences de présence sur place et les conditions d'admission, y compris les exigences de français.
In short (English): French-language distance doctorates in Canada are limited. Laval’s educational technology doctorate offers evening and distance courses, and TÉLUQ is a fully distance French-language university whose current doctoral offerings you should confirm on its website.
International Alternatives: Which Online PhD and Doctorate Programs Exist Outside Canada?
For your comparison and review, below are some online and distance options at universities outside Canada. Universities in the USA, UK and Australia offer online or distance doctoral programs, while Germany and the Netherlands mainly offer part-time routes for working professionals. You can compare these international options alongside online PhD Canada options to choose the program that best fits your career goals, budget and other requirements.
| Country | Example Universities | Program / Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Capitol Technology University | Over 40 doctoral programs, many available online (PhD, EdD, DBA) | Most research-focused programs have no residency; a few have residencies, so check each program |
| USA | University of Central Florida (UCF Online) | Fully online EdD in Curriculum and Instruction; online DNP and Nursing PhD | UCF lists online doctoral degrees in Education and Nursing |
| USA | Fielding Graduate University | Distributed learning: online coursework and live seminars plus in-person sessions | Doctorates include the EdD in Leadership for Change and PhDs in psychology and human development |
| UK | University of Leicester | Distance learning PhD | No required visits to Leicester; delivered through online modules and supervision |
| UK | University of Portsmouth | PhD via distance learning; Professional Doctorate in Business Administration (distance learning) | The PhD needs no campus visit; the DBA starts with online live classes, then applied research |
| Australia | University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) | PhD available online / external | About three years; you must secure a supervisor first |
| Australia | Charles Sturt University | Doctor of Business Administration, listed as online | Requires an MBA or equivalent and 5 years of business experience; confirm study mode on CSU's course page |
| Germany | FernUniversität in Hagen | Part-time external doctorate possible | Hagen states it does not offer a separate "distance doctorate"; you need a supervisor and must meet faculty rules |
| Netherlands | Maastricht University | Part-time Dual Career PhD and Executive PhD (working professionals) | Programs include in-person training in Maastricht; not an online DBA |
For more best online PhD and doctorate programs around the world, please visit our Online PhD By Country section, or to compare countries check PhD and Doctorate Online by Country Comparison
How Do You Choose the Right Online PhD or Doctorate in Canada?
- Decide between a research PhD and a professional doctorate. A PhD is the usual route to university research. An EdD, DBA or Doctor of Social Sciences suits improving practice in your field.
- Check how much travel you can manage. Compare residencies in days and cost, not just the word "online".
- Confirm the intake. Athabasca's EdD and USask's EdD each have one intake a year with a January 31 deadline. Royal Roads' DBA showed no current intake when we checked.
- Compare the experience requirement. Many programs require 3 to 7 years in a relevant role.
- Read the total cost. Include fees, extensions and travel.
- Check the supervisor and research topic. Your dissertation depends on a good match.
- Verify authorization and recognition using the accreditation section above.
- Contact the program about the current cohort, residency dates and funding before you apply.
Red flags: guaranteed admission, a doctorate in a fixed short time, fees requested before any application review, no named supervisor or faculty, or a "Canadian" degree actually issued by a non-Canadian provider.
Explore More: Related Doctoral Programs and Resources
Best Online Doctoral Programs covers doctoral programs across all major disciplines, countries, and career goals. Use the links below to explore related resources:
Frequently Asked Questions :
Q1. Can international students apply for online PhDs in Canada?
Yes, for programs that admit them. Programs with no in-person part do not need a study permit, but a residency can change that. For hybrid programs with residency visits, you may need a visitor visa, eTA or study permit depending on length and nationality, so check Government of Canada guidance and the program’s international office.
Q2: Are there fully online PhDs in Canada?
Yes, in some fields. UBC Okanagan describes its PhD in Nursing as fully online, and Laurier and Windsor deliver their social work PhDs through live online courses after a short in-person orientation. Laurentian’s PhD in Rural and Northern Health is delivered by live remote sessions. In education and business, Ontario Tech’s and Western’s EdDs are fully online professional doctorates, and Athabasca’s EdD and DBA are online with a short on-site component.
Q3: Can I get a scholarship or full funding?
Some funding exists, mostly for full-time research PhDs: the CGRS-D is worth $40,000 a year for 36 months but is tied to full-time study. Part-time professional doctorates are usually self-funded or employer-sponsored.
Q4: Are there no-GRE, no-dissertation programs in Canada?
The Athabasca, Western and University of Saskatchewan admission pages we reviewed do not list the GRE. No program fully removes the final research requirement, but Western’s Dissertation in Practice and Calgary’s applied dissertation formats are practice-focused.
Q5: Is Athabasca University a good choice?
It is a strong fit if you match its audience. The EdD is for distance, adult and continuing education practitioners, and the DBA is for experienced managers with an MBA or equivalent. Athabasca describes its EdD as North America’s first online Doctor of Education in distance education and its DBA as the first online DBA from a Canadian university.
Q6: What are the shortest PhD or doctorate programs in Canada?
The shortest published timelines we verified are about three years: Western EdD, Ontario Tech EdD, University of Saskatchewan EdD, and the Athabasca DBA at its fastest.
Q7: Can I get fully funded for an online PhD in Canada?
There is no blanket fully funded online PhD scheme in Canada. Funding depends on the program and on eligibility, and most tri-agency awards assume full-time study.
Q8: Is there a 1 year PhD program online in Canada?
We did not find one. The shortest verified Canadian doctorates take about three years.
Q9: Are online PhDs from Canada accredited?
Canada has no national accreditation system. Universities hold degree-granting authority from their province or territory, and some units hold professional accreditation.
Q 10: How much does an online doctorate in Canada cost?
Athabasca lists CAD $57,024 for its EdD (2026–27 schedule) and the University of Saskatchewan lists CAD $37,765 for its EdD. Confirm current fees on each official page.
Q 11: Is there a doctorat à distance in French in Canada?
Yes, a limited number. Laval offers a doctorate in educational technology with distance options, and TÉLUQ is a fully distance French-language university. See the French section above.
Q 12:Which online doctorate suits working professionals?
Cohort-based EdD and DBA programs at Western, Ontario Tech, Athabasca, Royal Roads, Calgary and Saskatchewan are built for working professionals, and most require several years of relevant experience.
📋 Editorial Information
Written and Researched by: Adan Abbasi
Last Updated: October 2026
Our Editorial Policy
📋 Editorial Note — Content Accuracy & Review
Editorial note: We built this guide by reading each university’s own program pages and comparing them side by side. Where a page did not state a fact, such as a single total tuition figure or an intake date, we say so instead of estimating. If you spot something out of date, please contact us and we will review it.
Official university pages and government sources used for this guide, last checked in October 2026. Fees, intakes and requirements change, so confirm details on the official page before you apply.
Education doctorates
- Athabasca University: EdD in Distance Education (summary and fees)
- Ontario Tech University: Doctor of Education
- Ontario Tech: EdD program overview
- Ontario Tech: EdD applications, requirements and fees
- Ontario Tech: English language proficiency
- Western University: Education (Professional) EdD
- Western: EdD information session and program design
- Western: EdD in Applied Behaviour Analysis
- University of Calgary (Werklund): Doctor of Education
- Werklund: admission requirements, doctoral programs
- Werklund: how to apply (English proficiency)
- University of Saskatchewan: Educational Leadership (EdD)
- University of Windsor: Joint PhD in Educational Studies
- Lakehead University: Educational Studies (Joint PhD)
Business and social sciences
Nursing PhDs
Social work, health and pharmacy
French-language options
Funding, recognition and immigration
- University of Toronto SGS: CGRS-D program
- UBC: CGS-D update (replaced by CGRS-D)
- Memorial University: CGRS Doctoral eligibility
- Universities Canada: quality assurance
- BC Council on Admissions and Transfer: accreditation and quality assurance
- CICIC: Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials
- Government of Canada (IRCC): study permits, distance learning
Programs outside Canada
- Capitol Technology University: doctoral degrees
- UCF Online: doctoral degrees
- Fielding Graduate University
- University of Leicester: distance learning research degrees
- University of Portsmouth: distance learning PhD support
- University of Portsmouth: DBA (distance learning)
- University of Southern Queensland: PhD
- Charles Sturt University: course search
- FernUniversität in Hagen: doctorates
- Maastricht University: PhD training programmes
- Warwick Business School: DBA
- Henley Business School: DBA
Disclaimer
BestOnlineDoctoralPrograms.com is an independent informational resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any university or institution listed on this website. Please verify program details directly with the respective institution. Fees, intakes and requirements change, and this page is not legal, immigration, financial or academic advice; for study permits, check with the Government of Canada before you apply. See our advertising disclosure, privacy policy and terms and conditions.
Ready to Find Your Program?
Explore the specified sections of Best Online Doctoral Programs categorized by speed, cost, subject, country, and dissertation requirements. Every program listed is accredited, verified, and updated for the 2026 academic year.