This qualitative descriptive study explored the perceptions of students enrolled in online doctoral programs in the United States regarding how they defined and described connectedness as it relates to their online programs. The theoretical foundations of this study were Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory and Bowlby's attachment theory. Two research questions guided this study: How do doctoral students define connectedness when enrolled in online doctoral programs? How do doctoral students describe connectedness when enrolled in online doctoral programs? A sample of doctoral students who were enrolled in online doctoral programs and had taken at least one online course (N = 54) completed an online questionnaire, of which 11 agreed to be interviewed. Thematic analysis was used to develop themes to address the research questions. These online doctoral students' definitions of connectedness coalesced around two major themes: "supportive encouragement" and "interactive communication." The students' descriptions of connectedness revealed the importance of two primary themes: "program support networks" and "nonprogram support networks." Previous literature had not highlighted the importance of support from sources outside a student's program (e.g., family and friends). These findings suggest ways that online doctoral students may be supported to persist and complete their programs. First, administrators might provide resources to educate students on the importance of both program and nonprogram networks. Second, faculty might encourage students to interact with "both program support networks" and "nonprogram support networks." Finally, online doctoral students might take self-initiative to develop "program support networks" and "nonprogram support networks.". [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]