Individuals who are considering pursuing a doctoral degree may want to consider the offerings of an accredited distance learning degree program when they are selecting a program.

As many PhD programs require candidates to participate in a great deal of research outside the classroom, students who are trying to earn this certification while keeping a job or raising a family may require flexible scheduling options. Fortunately, many colleges now offer distance learning PhD programs that include these conveniences.

For example, Michigan State University has announced it will launch a hybrid doctoral program this summer for students who are unable to take classes due to their personal or professional responsibilities, the State News reports.

The program is intended to benefit professionals who wish to pursue a PhD in educational psychology or educational technology, but cannot afford to quit their jobs due to the economic downturn, according to the media outlet.

School officials told the news source that degree candidates will be required to meet for two to three weeks during the summer months before taking online courses for four to five weeks.

Individuals who wish to begin work on a PhD degree without stunting their professional development may want to consider taking free online courses or enrolling in distance degree programs, such as those that are available through Capella University.