Earn Online Math, Science and Engineering Doctorate Degrees

Online Math, Science and Engineering Doctorate Degrees programs may offer the chance to explore your field in depth, conduct original research, and seek innovative solutions. Plus, earning a PhD or doctorate may be a way to pursue new scholarly and professional goals in a STEM field.

What Online STEM Doctorate Programs Might I Pursue?

STEM includes the fields of math, science, and engineering. (The ‘T’ stands for technology.) You could potentially find online Math, Science and Engineering Doctorate Degrees in areas like:

  • Systems Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Biology
  • Physics
  • Environmental Science
  • And many other possible areas!

What’s the Difference Between a PhD and Professional Doctorate?

Online Math, Science and Engineering Doctorate Degrees may all have slightly different learning goals and philosophies. Often, the biggest difference is in the kind of research being conducted by the doctoral student.

For example, a PhD student might seek to grow the existing body of knowledge in their field. A professional doctorate student, on the other hand, may be more focused on applying knowledge to solve a real-world professional problem.

Of course, there may be plenty of exceptions and overlapping areas when it comes to how various programs differ.

What Might I Learn in Online Math, Science and Engineering Doctorate Degrees?

Naturally, that depends on the field you study. For example, an Environmental Engineering PhD program might focus on research areas like air quality, greenhouse gas capture and sequestration, use of natural resources, and other related topics. Students may design and conduct projects designed to gain new knowledge of environmental problems and explore potential solutions.

An online Doctorate of Science in Computer Science, on the other hand, will have quite different goals! This program might focus on helping students hone both technical and research abilities, to explore innovation in technology. For instance, students may learn to evaluate existing technologies and make recommendations for improving them.

One thing is pretty likely: your PhD or doctorate program in science, engineering, or math will probably have a research component. Check with your prospective school to learn the specifics.

What Might I Do After Earning A STEM Doctorate?

PhD and doctorate degree-holders may pursue diverse paths. For instance, some PhD programs may help students explore potential roles in industry, government, academia, or other areas.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, most postsecondary teachers must have a PhD in their field.* If you’re interested in pursuing a college teaching career in a field like math, science or engineering, keep that in mind.

Find Your STEM PhD Here

Explore our sponsored listings for online Math, Science and Engineering Doctorate degrees that may help you pursue new goals.


* bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers .htm#tab-4