Building a community of scholars: One cohort’s experience in an online and distance education doctor of philosophy program

Background: Online and distance education is becoming increasingly common in higher education. As students explore graduate programs, they are often overwhelmed with the variety of program delivery options available. For graduate students pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), a particular concern relates to building a community of scholars and how to do so through an online and distance learning program. Method: Through a review of literature and personal stories, this article will highlight innovative strategies utilized by a cohort of PhD students related to online and distance learning and developing a community of scholars. Results: PhD students developed a community of scholars using innovative strategies to communicate and collaborate. Conclusion: Building a community of scholars is possible through online and distance education using simple forms of technology to connect and collaborate.