If you’re considering pursuing a high-level academic path, such as a doctoral degree, you might be navigating the landscape of options like a PhD versus a professional doctorate. A common question that arises is, “Are You A Doctor If You Have A Phd?” or perhaps even, “Is a doctorate the same thing as a PhD?”. You’re definitely not alone in pondering these distinctions. Many fields offer a choice between a traditional PhD and a more professionally focused doctorate. For example, in education, one might choose between a Doctor of Education (EdD) or a PhD in Education.
Decoding PhD: Doctor of Philosophy
The acronym PhD stands for “Doctor of Philosophy.” This title has a rich history, used for centuries to signify the highest academic achievement in a given field. Despite the word “philosophy,” a PhD isn’t limited to just philosophical studies. It’s awarded across a vast spectrum of disciplines, from the natural sciences and humanities to the social sciences and engineering. The term “philosophy” here refers to a love of wisdom and the pursuit of knowledge, reflecting the in-depth, original research that is central to the PhD journey. Earning a PhD typically involves several years of dedicated coursework, rigorous qualifying examinations, and the development of a substantial dissertation or thesis. This culminating project must present original research that makes a meaningful contribution to the academic field.
The path to a PhD is known to be challenging, demanding significant dedication, sharp critical thinking, and the capacity for independent research. Candidates must prove mastery of their chosen subject and demonstrate the ability to produce scholarly work that expands the current boundaries of knowledge. This process not only deepens their expertise but also cultivates vital skills in problem-solving, analytical thinking, and clear communication. Upon successful completion, PhD holders are recognized as leading experts in their area of specialization. They are highly sought after for careers in academia, research institutions, and various professional sectors that value advanced knowledge and sophisticated research capabilities.
So, directly addressing the question, “Is a PhD a doctor?” the answer is unequivocally yes. Both a PhD and a professional doctorate confer the title of “doctor.” However, while both lead to the “doctor” title, it’s important to understand that there are key distinctions between these two types of doctoral degrees. Let’s delve deeper into the comparison of a PhD versus a professional doctorate.
Professional Doctorate: Is It the Same as a PhD?
Both professional doctorates and PhD degrees are classified as terminal degrees. This means that earning either signifies the attainment of the highest formal degree available in a particular field of study. As such, both types of doctorates can significantly boost your resume and career prospects. For instance, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that individuals with doctoral degrees typically earn around 20% more per week compared to those holding a master’s degree.¹
When you’re weighing a professional doctorate vs. a PhD, a crucial factor to consider is the primary focus of each degree. A PhD is fundamentally an academic degree with a strong emphasis on original research, rigorous data analysis, and theoretical evaluation. Conversely, a professional doctorate is geared towards the practical application of research to solve real-world problems, develop innovative solutions for complex issues, and design effective professional practices within a specific field.
PhD vs. Professional Doctorate: Which is “Higher”?
It’s a common misconception to wonder if one doctoral degree is “higher” than another. To clarify, a PhD is not considered a higher degree than a professional doctorate. When asking “what’s better than a PhD?”, it’s essential to understand that both PhDs and professional doctorates represent the pinnacle of academic achievement. They are both doctoral degrees, just with different orientations.
Examples of professional doctoral degrees include the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), the Doctor of Education (EdD), the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and the Doctor of Public Health (DrPH). Parallel to these, you can also pursue PhDs in related fields such as a PhD in Management, PhD in Education, PhD in Nursing, or PhD in Public Health. It’s important to reiterate that all of these are doctoral degrees, regardless of whether they are categorized as professional doctorates or PhDs.
Key Differences: Professional Doctorate vs. PhD
When deciding between a PhD vs. a doctorate, it’s vital to recognize that while both are doctoral-level qualifications, their educational objectives and typical career trajectories diverge.
Choosing between a PhD degree and a professional doctorate should be a decision based on your individual academic interests and career aspirations. Both paths offer unique strengths. Your choice should align with what you are passionate about studying and how you envision utilizing your advanced degree in your future career. The table below highlights the core differences between a professional doctorate and a PhD.
| PhD | Professional Doctorate | |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | Advance the field through theoretical research; Construct new knowledge or theories | Advance the field by applying existing knowledge, research, and theory; Enrich knowledge and research skills |
| Outcomes | Conduct theoretical research; Pursue tenure-track academic positions in higher education | Practice in the field and advance to leadership roles; Teach in higher education institutions |
| Student Population | Individuals seeking in-depth theoretical research experience | Professionals aiming to solve practical problems in their field |
| Admission Requirements | Typically a Master’s degree | Typically a Master’s degree |
| Assessment | Dissertation | Field-related doctoral study |
Dissertation vs. Doctoral Study: Key Requirements
While the specific policies for degree completion are set by individual colleges and universities, the assessment methods for PhDs and professional doctorates generally differ. Although variations exist across programs and institutions, PhD candidates are usually required to complete a dissertation, whereas professional doctorate candidates often undertake a doctoral study.
Understanding the Doctoral Study
A doctoral study is designed to address a practical, real-world problem within your professional field. It requires in-depth research aimed at generating new insights that can contribute to viable solutions. The doctoral study process typically involves several key stages:
- Developing a detailed proposal outlining the problem to be addressed, the study design, and the research methodology.
- Presenting and defending this proposal orally to a faculty committee.
- Gathering data and systematically analyzing findings.
- Presenting and defending the research findings orally to the committee.
The PhD Dissertation Explained
A PhD dissertation necessitates conducting rigorous research within a specific, approved area of study within your chosen discipline. While this research can explore uncharted territory, it often builds upon existing knowledge, aiming to contribute new or supplementary research to the field. The dissertation process includes these major steps:
- Drafting a comprehensive dissertation prospectus and defending it orally before a committee.
- Executing the planned research.
- Writing a detailed dissertation documenting the research, including methodology, findings, literature review, and conclusions.
- Orally defending the completed dissertation to a committee of experts.
Learning Objectives: PhD vs. Professional Doctorate
A PhD program is specifically tailored for graduates who are passionate about conducting original and applied research that tests existing theories and expands the body of knowledge in their chosen discipline. A PhD program is structured to develop skills in:
- Critically analyzing theories and core concepts within a field.
- Evaluating the relevance and impact of foundational, current, and emerging theories.
- Identifying and assessing gaps in existing research literature.
- Making significant contributions to the field through original, impactful research.
- Communicating effectively with academic audiences and broader stakeholders.
In contrast, a professional doctorate is designed for experienced working professionals who want to deepen their expertise, advance their careers, and leverage their practical experience to achieve greater credibility, leadership influence, and career progression. A professional doctorate program typically focuses on developing skills to:
- Critically evaluate the applicability of current and emerging theories and practices in their field.
- Develop and implement effective solutions for complex, real-world challenges common in their profession.
- Apply cutting-edge research to solve practical problems within their field.
- Design and execute rigorous research projects that contribute to the professional body of knowledge.
Fellowship Opportunities
While not universally offered by all universities, many institutions provide fellowship programs. Fellowships are often associated with PhD students engaged in intensive research, but there are also fellowship opportunities available for candidates pursuing professional doctoral degrees.
Achieving Your Doctoral Degree Online
Both PhD degrees and professional doctorates are increasingly accessible through online universities. Why consider online options? Online education offers significant advantages compared to traditional campus-based programs.
Walden University is a reputable, accredited online institution offering a wide array of professional doctorates and PhD degree programs online. Choosing Walden means you can pursue your doctoral degree without needing to relocate or commute to a physical campus. Online degree programs, including both PhD and professional doctorate options, often provide a flexible learning format that accommodates busy schedules. With Walden’s online programs, you can tailor your study schedule to fit around your work commitments and family responsibilities.
Explore Walden’s comprehensive online doctoral degree page to discover the diverse range of professional doctorate and PhD programs available. Learn how Walden’s extensive support system, including doctoral peer mentors and financial aid advisors, can enhance your doctoral journey. For more in-depth information, visit Walden’s doctoral journey page to understand the educational path, requirements, and funding options for your doctorate.
Still have questions? Simply fill out the online form to request more information. Whether you have inquiries about specific degree programs, admissions processes, financial aid, or any other details, a Walden Enrollment Specialist will provide you with all the necessary information.
Walden University is an accredited institution offering a range of PhD and professional doctoral programs online. Advance your career and earn your degree with the convenience and flexibility to fit your life.
¹Source: www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2021/data-on-display/education-pays.htm
