Although it sounds like an interesting prospect, its natural to feel a little confused about how an online version of a traditional Ph.D. degree would work. Of course, there are differences from one institution to another, and there will also be differences in approach depending on the subject. There is a certain set up for online Ph.D. degrees, and here’s the breakdown of how it works:

Picking a program
Of course, your entire journey to an online Ph.D. degree starts with picking a program. Online programs happen to be more versatile and flexible to fit the needs of all kinds of students from various backgrounds.

Deciding on your commitment
This is more so important in the case of Ph.D. degrees, as opposed to undergrad ones. A Ph.D. demands a lot from the student, so it’s only natural that you sit down and have an honest conversation and decide upon your priorities and time commitment. This also includes setting a path for yourself in terms of how many credits are required of you to fulfill, depending on your learning pace and availability.

Beginning lectures and classes
Students are generally handed out timetables and the framework for the course.

Different kinds of methods of instruction
Some lectures will be available as and when you need them, on demand. This is objectively more versatile and simpler for the student. However, other lectures require students to log in at a given time and watch synchronously. These allow for group discussions and more communication with teachers and fellow classmates. You’ll likely have to work with both these methods so try to make time for each.

Various tools available for assistance
Students are encouraged to use tools available to them such as Skype and Slack to communicate with teachers and advisors to get the assistance they need.

Submitting assignments
Most universities and online programs come with a submission portal; however, others require students to submit via email and directly maintain contact with the professors. There will be deadlines for submission as well, so students are expected to keep them in mind. You might also need to visit the campus from time to time.