Academic degrees can often be confusing, especially when it comes to the subtle differences in terminology. One common area of uncertainty revolves around the terms doctoral and doctorate. Are they interchangeable? Is it a doctoral degree or a doctorate degree? Understanding the nuances between these words is crucial for clear and accurate communication, especially in academic and professional contexts.
This article will clarify the distinction between doctoral and doctorate, providing you with the knowledge to use these terms correctly and confidently. We will explore their meanings, proper usage, and common style guidelines to ensure your writing is precise and professional when discussing advanced academic achievements.
What Does “Doctor” Actually Mean?
The term “doctor” itself has a rich history, originating from the Latin word for “teacher.” In academia, “Doctor” is an academic title of honor bestowed upon individuals who have earned a doctoral degree. This degree represents the highest level of academic achievement awarded by universities. Earning a doctorate signifies the completion of rigorous coursework, comprehensive examinations, and, most importantly, original research culminating in a dissertation. This dissertation demonstrates the candidate’s expertise and contribution to their field of study through articulated and defended reasoning.
The use of “Doctor” as an academic title dates back to the 13th century in Europe, marking the inception of formal doctoral distinctions. Today, the abbreviated form “Dr.” is widely recognized as a title for someone holding a doctorate. It’s important to note that being a “doctor” in academia isn’t solely confined to the medical field. For instance, a scholar with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in literature or sociology also holds the title of “doctor.”
Doctoral degrees are diverse, reflecting the breadth of academic disciplines. Here are some examples of different types of doctoral titles:
| Abbreviation | Degree Title | Field |
|---|---|---|
| D.D. | Divinitatis Doctor | Doctor of Divinity |
| D.D.S. | Doctor of Dental Surgery | Dentistry |
| D.O. | Doctor of Osteopathy | Osteopathic Medicine |
| D.V.M. | Doctor of Veterinary Medicine | Veterinary Medicine |
| J.D. | Juris Doctor | Law |
| M.D. | Medicinae Doctor | Medicine |
| Ph.D. | Philosophiae Doctor | Doctor of Philosophy (various fields) |
While both a physician with an M.D. and a historian with a Ph.D. are addressed as “Doctor” in speech, written distinctions are crucial. The abbreviations “Dr.,” “M.D.,” and “Ph.D.” are not interchangeable in formal writing.
Specifically, a “Ph.D.” indicates a Doctor of Philosophy degree, signifying advanced, specialized knowledge in a field, but typically not medical practice. Conversely, an “M.D.” denotes a Doctor of Medicine, qualifying the holder to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication to patients after completing medical school. It is also possible for an individual to hold both an M.D. and a Ph.D., often in cases of medical researchers.
It’s worth noting that the title “Dr.” should not be used for individuals holding only honorary doctorates. Furthermore, once an individual is referred to as “Dr.” or with their doctoral degree on first mention, subsequent references should typically use just their last name (e.g., “Dr. Emily Branson” initially, then “Branson”). Courtesy titles like “Ms.,” “Mrs.,” or “Mr.” can be used in later references, depending on context and preference.
Doctoral vs. Doctorate: Usage and Grammatical Role
Style guides like The Associated Press Stylebook offer guidance on how to refer to academic degrees in writing. When it’s necessary to specify someone’s credentials, phrasing such as “Emily Branson, who has a doctorate in philosophy” is preferred over abbreviations. This approach prioritizes clarity and readability.
However, when mentioning multiple individuals with doctorates, using abbreviations can enhance conciseness. In such cases, the abbreviation follows the full name and is set off by commas: “Emily Branson, Ph.D.; Roger Pendleton, Ph.D.; and Len Bryant, Ph.D.“
For professionals holding a doctorate in medicine, psychology, dentistry, or veterinary medicine, the abbreviated title “Dr.” is placed before the name: “Dr. Anthony Fowler.” It’s incorrect to spell out the title as “Doctor Anthony Fowler.” Similarly, avoid combining “Dr.” with other earned distinctions, such as “Dr. Anthony Fowler, D.D.“
Moreover, when using academic titles, courtesy titles like “Mr.,” “Mrs.,” and “Ms.” are omitted.
Correct: Harold H. Johanssen, Ph.D.
Incorrect: Mr. Harold H. Johanssen, Ph.D.
When writing out academic degrees and honors, capitalize them when they follow a name, whether abbreviated or in full:
Bryan F. Wing, Doctor of Dental Surgery
Bryan F. Wing, D.D.S.
Punctuation styles for abbreviated degrees can vary. The Chicago Manual of Style suggests omitting periods unless needed for consistency or tradition (e.g., using “PhD”). The Associated Press, conversely, prefers periods (“Ph.D.”). The choice often depends on personal preference or specific style guidelines being followed.
Doctoral Degree or Doctorate Degree: The Key Difference
The words doctoral and doctorate are related but serve different grammatical functions. Understanding this distinction is key to using them correctly.
- Doctorate functions as a noun. It refers to the academic degree itself—the highest degree awarded by a university. You earn a doctorate.
- Doctoral functions as an adjective. It describes something related to a doctorate. Therefore, you pursue doctoral studies or write a doctoral dissertation to achieve a doctorate.
Thus, the correct phrasing is “doctoral degree,” because “doctoral” is the adjective describing the type of degree, which is a doctorate. “Doctorate degree” is grammatically incorrect and redundant, as doctorate already signifies a degree.
The AP Stylebook advises against capitalizing degrees in general terms (doctorate, doctoral degree) but recommends capitalization for specific degree names (Doctor of Dental Surgery, Doctor of Philosophy). Both AP and CMOS concur that the field of study should be lowercase unless it contains a proper noun (e.g., Ph.D. in history, Ph.D. in French).
In Summary:
| Term | Part of Speech | Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doctorate | Noun | The degree itself | “She earned her doctorate in biology.” |
| Doctoral | Adjective | Describing things related to a doctorate | “He is pursuing doctoral research.” |
| Doctoral degree | Noun Phrase | The correct term for the degree | “He holds a doctoral degree.” |
By understanding this subtle yet important difference between doctoral and doctorate, you can ensure accuracy and precision in your writing when discussing advanced academic qualifications. Using the correct terminology enhances clarity and professionalism in academic and professional communication.
Explore Further
Capitalization of Academic Degrees
Associate Degree or Associate’s Degree?
Bachelors Degree or Bachelor’s Degree?
Masters Degree or Master’s Degree?
