This document summarizes the process and design of an online doctoral program at Athabasca University in Canada. It includes: - A 4-year, cohort-based program with 8-12 students that includes an initial online intro session, 5-day in-person orientation, and courses taken one per semester. - Coursework covers advanced topics in distance education, research methods, teaching and learning at a distance, and leadership. It includes a research seminar, proposal defense, and dissertation work. - Challenges in online doctoral programs are discussed, such as student isolation, lack of support structures, inadequate writing skills, and poor supervision. The cohort model and social networking aims to address