Innovation in doctoral degree program development and delivery provides an effective counterpoint to the expert-apprentice model established in the Middle Ages. The author outlines the importance of innovation in reaching adult learners and describes an innovative hybrid PhD program designed to allow aspiring doctoral adult-age students to pursue a degree by providing access to education at a distance. He describes how this innovative program was designed to overcome traditional barriers to higher education to meet the needs of today's adult-age learner while maintaining rigorous quality.