Have you earned your master’s degree and are contemplating the next step in your academic journey? Or perhaps you’re just beginning to explore the landscape of advanced education and what options are available to you?
A doctorate degree represents the highest level of academic achievement, signifying mastery in a specific discipline or professional field. But what exactly is a doctorate degree, what fields can you pursue at this level, and what does the journey entail? Consider this article your in-depth guide to doctorate degrees.
Defining the Doctorate Degree
A doctorate degree, often referred to as a doctor’s degree, is the ultimate academic credential, awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional expertise and made original contributions to their field of study.
Earning a doctorate necessitates rigorous research and scholarly communication. Candidates are expected to conduct extensive research on a chosen subject, perform novel analysis, and offer fresh insights or solutions that advance their discipline. The attainment of a doctorate degree not only positions you for leadership roles and top-tier positions in consulting and education but also equips you with a competitive advantage in today’s dynamic job market. For many, completing a doctorate represents the culmination of a lifelong ambition and a profound personal achievement.
Students in a graduation ceremony, representing the achievement of a doctors degree
The Growing Demand for Doctorate Degrees
The need for individuals holding a doctor’s degree varies across industries and specific roles. However, analyzing trends in degree completion rates offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of doctoral-level education. According to recent data, the number of doctorate degrees awarded has seen substantial growth. From 2012 to 2022, there was a notable 20% increase in doctoral degree completions, rising from 170,815 to 205,341. This upward trend underscores the increasing value and relevance of doctorate-level education in today’s world.
Certain doctoral categories have experienced particularly significant growth over this decade, indicating areas of high demand. These include:
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Programs: Witnessing an impressive surge of +75%, reflecting the increasing complexity and specialization within the business world.
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services: With a remarkable +64% growth, highlighting the rapid expansion and innovation in the tech sector.
- Education: Growing by +49%, demonstrating the ongoing need for highly qualified educational leaders and researchers.
- Health Professions and Related Programs: Also increasing by +49%, driven by advancements in healthcare and the demand for specialized medical professionals.
- Engineering: Expanding by +38%, indicating the continuous need for advanced engineering expertise to drive technological progress.
On a more specific level, doctoral programs with the most significant growth include Occupational Therapy/Therapist (+1,134%), Nursing Practice (+614%), Organizational Leadership (+368%), and Social Work (+154%). Conversely, some programs have seen a decrease in demand, such as Divinity/Ministry (-42%), History (-26%), Law (-22%), and Psychology (-16%).
These trends suggest that industries characterized by rapid growth and increasing complexity are driving the demand for doctorate degree holders. These sectors require professionals with advanced expertise and specialized skills to navigate evolving challenges and opportunities. In contrast, industries experiencing slower growth or requiring less specialized skill development may see a reduced need for doctoral-level expertise.
Embarking on a doctorate is a significant undertaking. Download our free guide for essential tips and insights to help you prepare for doctoral success.
The Expansion of Online Doctorate Degrees
Traditionally, doctorate programs were exclusively offered in a face-to-face classroom setting. However, the landscape of higher education has transformed significantly with the rise of flexible online learning platforms. Data from recent analysis reveals a dramatic shift towards online doctorate degrees. Distance-offered doctoral programs have experienced an astounding 237% increase in graduates between 2012 and 2022, while traditional, non-distance programs have only grown by a modest 6% during the same period. This exponential growth underscores the increasing accessibility and popularity of online doctoral education.
The surge in online doctorate degrees is particularly evident in the fields previously mentioned as experiencing high demand. Distance learning completions have soared, with increases of 150% in Law, an extraordinary 986% in Nursing Practice, 427% in Educational Leadership and Administration (General), and 243% in Business Administration and Management (General). These figures highlight the flexibility and convenience that online programs offer, attracting a wider range of students seeking to advance their education while balancing other commitments.
Growth chart illustrating the rise of online doctoral programs compared to traditional programs
With the increasing variety of doctorate programs available, it’s crucial to understand the different types and which might align best with your career aspirations.
Exploring the Two Main Types of Doctorate Degrees
Doctorate degrees broadly fall into two primary categories: research-oriented degrees and professional application degrees (often referred to as applied doctorates). While the distinction might seem clear-cut, the nuances between these two types can be subtle.
Let’s delve into a detailed comparison of these common doctorate program types:
The Ph.D.: A Doctorate Focused on Research
These research-centric degrees are universally recognized as Doctor of Philosophy degrees (Ph.D.). The Ph.D. is designed to prepare scholars for careers in academia and research. However, many Ph.D. graduates also find fulfilling careers in industry and government roles that require advanced research and analytical skills. Alongside the traditional Ph.D., other research-oriented doctorates include:
- Doctor of Arts (D.A.)
- Doctor of Theology (Th.D.)
- Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)
It’s important to note that the term “Philosophy” in Ph.D. signifies the degree’s emphasis on the love of knowledge and pursuit of research, not necessarily the specific subject of philosophy itself. A defining element of the Ph.D. is the dissertation process, a substantial independent research project that culminates in a written thesis and oral defense.
The Professional Doctorate: A Doctorate Focused on Application
A professional doctorate, also known as an applied doctorate or terminal professional doctorate, prioritizes the practical application of knowledge within real-world professional settings.
Pursuing a professional doctorate is often the ideal path for individuals aiming for career advancement, seeking to meet the qualifications for senior leadership positions, establishing credibility as practitioners within their industry, or building a successful consulting practice. These degrees are tailored to equip graduates with advanced skills and knowledge directly applicable to their professional fields.
Common examples of professional doctorates include:
- Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
- Doctor of Healthcare Administration (DHA)
- Doctor of Professional Studies (DPS)
- Doctor of Finance (D.Fin.)
- Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)
- Juris Doctor (J.D.)
While some professional doctorate programs may include a dissertation component, many emphasize applied research projects, capstone projects, or practice-based dissertations. Unlike the research doctorate’s academic focus, the professional doctorate curriculum encourages students to address current challenges within their field, conduct relevant research, and propose practical solutions.
Understanding the Structure of a Doctorate Degree Program
The journey to earning a doctorate degree typically involves a structured curriculum divided into four key stages: foundational coursework, specialized major courses, elective studies, and the dissertation phase.
Building a Research Foundation
Most doctoral programs commence with a core set of courses designed to establish the essential research skills necessary for advanced academic work. This research core provides students with the methodological and analytical tools they will need throughout their doctoral studies.
The core curriculum often encompasses topics such as advanced academic writing, research methodologies and design, applied statistics, colloquium seminars, and both qualitative and quantitative research and analysis techniques.
Focusing on Your Major Area
Upon completing the research core, students progress to specialized coursework within their chosen major area of emphasis. These courses provide in-depth knowledge and advanced training in their specific field of study.
For instance:
- Students pursuing a DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) will likely engage with courses in organizational behavior, organizational systems, strategic thinking and decision-making, ethical leadership, and change management.
- Those earning a DHA (Doctor of Healthcare Administration) can expect coursework covering healthcare policy and regulations, healthcare economics and finance, quality and process improvement methodologies, and health information governance.
- Candidates for a Ph.D. in Human Services might take courses in advanced research methods for public service, social influences on behavior, ethical decision-making frameworks, and advanced communication strategies for leaders in human services.
Expanding Your Knowledge with Electives
Doctoral programs typically incorporate elective courses to broaden students’ perspectives and encourage interdisciplinary thinking. Electives allow students to explore related fields, develop specialized skills, or delve deeper into areas of particular interest within their discipline. This well-rounded approach enhances the applicability of their doctorate in diverse real-world contexts.
For example, students pursuing a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) can choose to specialize in focus areas such as Higher Education Leadership, PK-12 Educational Leadership, or Organizational Leadership, tailoring their studies to their specific career goals within education.
The Dissertation: Your Capstone Project
After completing the foundational coursework, major area studies, and electives, the final stage of a doctorate degree program is the dissertation. The dissertation is a significant scholarly undertaking that showcases a candidate’s ability to conduct original research and contribute meaningfully to their field. The specific format and requirements of the dissertation may vary depending on whether it’s a Ph.D. or an applied doctorate.
For Ph.D. candidates, the dissertation typically takes the form of a traditional five-chapter research document, often developed in three phases. Phase 1 involves submitting a prospectus for approval by a dissertation committee. Phase 2 focuses on finalizing the initial chapters of the dissertation and commencing data collection. Phase 3 culminates in completing the full dissertation manuscript and defending it orally before program faculty.
For applied doctorate students, the dissertation may take a different form, often emphasizing the development of a practical solution to a real-world problem. This might involve applied research projects, program evaluations, or the creation of innovative interventions within their professional field.
Investigating Dissertation Structures Early
Given the dissertation’s central role in doctoral studies, it’s crucial to understand the dissertation process and expectations from the outset. When researching prospective doctoral programs, it’s beneficial to inquire about dissertation structures and support systems. Selecting a program that provides robust dissertation guidance and resources can significantly impact a student’s success and timely completion of the degree.
Franklin University, for example, has intentionally designed a dissertation structure to provide step-by-step support throughout the process, starting from program enrollment. The university emphasizes faculty mentorship, personalized guidance, and peer-to-peer support to ensure students are well-equipped to navigate the dissertation journey and are never left to feel isolated or unsupported. Throughout their doctoral coursework at Franklin, students cultivate essential research skills and hone their writing abilities, preparing them to produce a high-quality dissertation as the capstone project of their doctoral studies. The dissertation at Franklin is designed to demonstrate a student’s capacity to identify a relevant workplace issue, propose an effective solution, and empirically test their hypotheses in a real-world setting.
How Long Does it Take to Earn a Doctorate Degree?
The duration required to complete a doctorate program varies depending on several factors, including the type of program, the field of study, and the institution offering the degree.
A doctorate degree program generally requires between 60 and 120 semester credit hours, equivalent to approximately 20 to 40 college courses. Ph.D. programs often require closer to 120 credit hours, while applied doctorate programs tend to be at the lower end of this range. For instance, the DBA and DHA programs at Franklin University require 58 credit hours.
On average, completing a Ph.D. can take up to eight years. Generally, a doctorate degree takes four to six years to complete. However, this timeline is influenced by program structure, the specific discipline, and the institution’s program design.
Pro Tip: Innovative institutions like Franklin University have streamlined their doctorate programs and offer flexible transfer credit options. Their program design, which integrates dissertation support and fosters a supportive learning community, enables students to earn their doctorate in as little as three years.
Is a Doctorate Program Right for You?
Beyond possessing a relevant master’s degree or equivalent professional experience, successful doctoral candidates typically share certain key characteristics. They are highly organized, possess intellectual curiosity, and demonstrate strong time management skills to effectively balance the demands of doctoral studies with other life commitments. Earning a doctorate can lead to increased earning potential, open doors to fulfilling roles in higher education, and realize a significant personal aspiration.
Many doctoral students are working professionals with families and community engagements. Therefore, strong motivation and resilience are essential qualities for navigating the challenges of doctoral study. However, the rewards of a doctorate degree, both in terms of career advancement and personal development, can be truly transformative.
Dr. Wendell Seaborne, Dean of Doctoral Studies & Academic Research at Franklin University, shares his experience: “I transitioned from a successful 27-year career in the electric utility industry to higher education. This shift has allowed me to positively impact thousands of lives over the past 18 years as a full-time educator.”
Franklin University offers applied doctorate programs with 8-week courses and asynchronous learning options, designed to accommodate the schedules of working professionals who are committed to making a meaningful impact in their fields.
The Compelling Reasons to Pursue a Doctorate Degree
A doctorate program represents a significant investment of time and effort for master’s degree holders, but it also offers a substantial return on investment.
For those aspiring to teach at the university level, a doctorate is often a prerequisite. For individuals seeking leadership positions in their industry, a doctorate can provide significant credibility and expertise. And for those aiming for the highest levels of corporate leadership, a doctorate can be a powerful differentiator.
So, is a research-focused or applied doctorate the right path for you? Explore these five key insights about Applied Doctorates to gain a deeper understanding and make an informed decision.
Free Guide:
Blueprint visual for guide on completing a doctoral journey
How to Complete Your Doctoral Journey
Discover common pitfalls and the 5 key metrics that will help you successfully finish your doctorate degree.
