A PhD, which stands for Doctor of Philosophy, is the highest academic degree that can be earned. There are several different types of PhD degrees that students can pursue depending on their field of study and research interests. In this article, we will explore the different types of PhD degrees that are available and provide an overview of each one.
Traditional or Academic Doctoral Degree
This is the most common type of PhD degree. It is designed for students who want to pursue academic research careers and teaching positions at colleges and universities. Academic PhD programs focus on developing strong research, analytical, and writing skills through advanced coursework and intensive independent research. Students must complete and defend a dissertation at the end of the program to graduate. Academic PhDs usually take 5-6 years to complete depending on the field of study.
Some examples of traditional academic PhD degrees include:
- PhD in Biology
- PhD in History
- PhD in English
- PhD in Physics
- PhD in Political Science
These programs are primarily intended to train experts within a certain academic discipline. Students graduate with in-depth knowledge of their field and the ability to expand knowledge through original research.
Key Features of Traditional Academic PhDs
- Several years of intensive, original research
- Dissertation defense
- Focus on preparing for academic career
- More theoretical than applied
Professional Doctoral Degrees
Professional doctoral degrees are focused on preparing students for careers outside of academia. They tend to be more interdisciplinary and applied, with more focus on developing skills for professional practice. These programs usually do not require a traditional dissertation. Instead, students complete practical projects, capstone experiences, or portfolios to demonstrate their learning. Professional doctorates generally take 3-4 years to complete.
Some examples of professional doctorate degrees include:
- Doctor of Education (EdD)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)
- Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
- Juris Doctor (JD)
These types of doctoral degrees are geared towards training experts to work in leadership and advanced practice roles in fields like business, education, healthcare, and law. They integrate scholarly research with hands-on learning.
Key Features of Professional Doctorates
- More interdisciplinary and applied focus
- Practical projects rather than dissertation
- Shorter than academic PhDs
- Prepares for careers outside academia
Research Doctorates
Research doctorates focus intensively on advanced research methods, experimentation, and producing original research to expand knowledge in the field. They are similar to academic PhDs but have an even stronger emphasis on research. These programs require a dissertation or final research project as the culminating experience.
Some examples of research doctorates include:
- Doctor of Science (DSc or ScD)
- Doctor of Engineering (DEng or D.Eng)
- Doctor of Arts (DA)
- Doctor of Design (DDes)
These degree types are less common than academic PhDs but are awarded at some institutions, particularly in STEM fields. They indicate an exceptionally high level of expertise and achievement in research.
Key Features of Research Doctorates
- Extreme focus on advanced research
- Longer timeline – up to 7 years
- Dissertation required
- Reserved for top research students
Higher Doctorates
Higher doctorates represent the highest academic accolade for established scholars who have made significant, sustained contributions to their field through a body of published research. They are rare honorary degrees awarded in recognition of exceptional scholarly work over an entire career.
Some examples of higher doctorates include:
- Doctor of Science (DSc)
- Doctor of Letters (DLitt)
- Doctor of Law (LLD)
- Doctor of Music (DMus)
These are not earned degrees that students enroll in programs for, but rather prestigious honors conferred upon senior faculty members and researchers. Criteria for awarding higher doctorates varies by institution.
Key Features of Higher Doctorates
- Honorary degrees
- Awarded for lifetime of scholarly achievement
- Recognizes senior, eminent researchers
- Very rare and prestigious
Professional vs Research vs Higher Doctorates Comparison
To summarize the key differences:
| Degree Type | Professional | Research | Higher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program Length | 3-4 years | Up to 7 years | Honorary degree |
| Focus | Applied skills for career | Producing original research | Lifetime of achievements |
| Awarded to | Graduate students | Graduate students | Eminent senior scholars |
| Dissertation | Usually not required | Required | Not required |
| Common degrees | EdD, DNP, DBA, JD | DSc, DEng, DA | DSc, DLitt, LLD, DMus |
Conclusion
In summary, while PhD programs are typically focused on preparing students for academic research careers, there are several distinct types of doctoral degree programs available:
- Traditional academic PhDs are research-focused degrees that take 5-6 years to complete and require a dissertation.
- Professional doctorates are more applied 3-4 year degrees that prepare students for careers outside academia.
- Research doctorates are highly intensive research degrees reserved for top students.
- Higher doctorates are prestigious honorary degrees awarded to senior faculty.
The type of doctoral degree a student pursues depends on their academic discipline, research interests, and desired career path after graduation. All PhD degrees indicate the highest level of academic achievement and expertise within a field. The key differences lie in the program duration, degree focus, and motivation for pursuing the degree.