Considering taking your academic journey to the highest level? A doctorate degree can significantly enhance your career prospects and earning potential. Whether you’re just starting your higher education path or looking to advance your existing qualifications, understanding How To Get A Doctorate is crucial. This guide answers your key questions about doctoral programs and helps you determine if pursuing a doctorate is the right step for you.
You might be wondering:
- What exactly is a doctorate degree?
- Is a doctorate the same thing as a PhD?
- What kinds of doctorate programs are available?
- What are the essential steps to earn a doctoral degree?
- How much of a salary increase can you expect with a doctorate?
If these questions are on your mind, keep reading to discover the fundamentals of doctoral degrees and PhD programs, and learn how to get a doctorate degree.
What is a Doctorate Degree?
A doctorate degree, also known as a doctoral degree, represents the pinnacle of academic achievement in any field. Completing a doctorate program is a demanding endeavor, requiring years of in-depth research and the ability to contribute original insights to your chosen field. Doctorate holders are recognized as experts in their specialties and are highly sought after for leadership, research, and consulting roles across various industries. Earning a doctorate is a powerful way to boost your resume and significantly increase your earning potential.
To learn more about the financial benefits, jump to the section on average salaries for doctorate holders. Or, continue reading to address a common question: is a doctorate degree the same as a PhD?
Doctorate vs. PhD Degrees
What’s the real difference between a doctorate degree and a PhD? Simply put, a PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is one type of doctorate degree, but there are several others. Let’s explore the main categories of doctoral degrees and their key distinctions.
Exploring Different Types of Doctoral Degrees
Just as bachelor’s and master’s degrees come in different forms, like a Bachelor of Arts (BA) versus a Bachelor of Science (BS), or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) versus a Master of Public Administration (MPA), doctoral degrees also have different categories. Understanding these categories is a vital step in learning how to get a doctorate that aligns with your career goals. There are primarily two main types of doctorate degrees:
- Applied Practitioner-Based Doctoral Programs
- Theoretically Based Doctoral Programs
Let’s compare these two types to understand their differences.
Applied Practitioner-Based Doctoral Programs
Applied practitioner-based doctoral programs, often referred to as professional or applied doctorates, focus on practical problem-solving and the direct application of knowledge. Unlike PhDs, which emphasize theoretical research and the creation of new knowledge, these degrees are geared towards advancing professional practice.
These degrees are essential for specific career paths. For example, to become a lawyer, you must earn a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and pass the bar exam. Besides the JD, here are several other examples of applied doctorate degrees:
- Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
- Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP)
- Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
- Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
- Doctor of Education (EdD)
Theoretically Based Doctoral Programs
This category primarily includes the Doctor of Philosophy, or PhD degree. While PhDs are commonly associated with philosophy, they are awarded across a wide range of disciplines, from economics to psychology. Interestingly, some degrees, like the Doctor of Arts (DA), are also considered PhDs, despite having a different name. Here are a few examples of PhD degrees:
Unlike professional degrees like a JD or EdD, a PhD is heavily research-focused. The core requirement of a PhD is the dissertation, which must present original research and contribute new knowledge or theories to the academic field. This research-intensive nature is why the term “philosophy” is used, referring to the “love of knowledge,” even in fields unrelated to traditional philosophy.
woman studying on her computer to to obtain a doctorate
Alt text: Focused woman studying on her laptop, researching doctorate programs online to advance her education.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get a Doctorate
The journey to earning a doctorate can take anywhere from three to eight years, depending on the program structure, pace, and the time dedicated to your dissertation. Understanding the key stages is essential when considering how to get a doctorate and planning your academic path. To make this journey manageable, here are four fundamental steps to earning your doctorate degree:
- Build a Strong Foundation: Complete your undergraduate and graduate degrees to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills.
- Choose the Right Program: Research and apply to a doctorate program that aligns with your career aspirations.
- Master the Coursework: Successfully complete all required coursework in your doctoral program.
- Conduct Original Research: Develop and defend an original dissertation based on your research.
Let’s delve deeper into each of these steps to understand what’s involved in how to get a doctorate.
Step 1: Complete Your Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree
Doctorate programs are highly competitive and have stringent admission requirements. Typically, applicants must hold a bachelor’s and often a master’s degree from an accredited institution. These prior degrees provide the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for doctoral-level study.
If you are starting your academic journey, consider choosing undergraduate and master’s programs that directly relate to your desired doctorate field. For instance, if you aim for a Doctor of Clinical Psychology (PsyD), a Bachelor of Science in Psychology followed by a related master’s degree would be a strategic path. However, career changes are possible, and individuals with degrees in different fields can still pursue a doctorate with appropriate preparation.
National University offers flexible online and accelerated programs, along with credit transfer options, to help you efficiently achieve your academic goals. Explore their accredited master’s degree programs and bachelor’s degree programs to build a solid academic foundation.
Step 2: Apply to Doctorate Programs
Choosing the right doctorate program is a significant decision. It’s an investment of time, effort, and resources, so selecting a reputable, accredited program that supports your needs is crucial in how to get a doctorate successfully. Consider factors like:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized body.
- Financial Aid: Explore scholarship and financial aid options.
- Program Flexibility: Look for programs that offer flexible learning formats, such as online components or accelerated options.
- Support Services: Check for resources tailored to specific student needs, such as support for military service members and veterans.
National University offers WASC-accredited doctoral programs in healthcare, psychology, and education. Explore these programs and contact their admissions office for more information:
- Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP): A fast-paced, three-year hybrid program combining online coursework with a residency at the Fresno campus, preparing students for advanced roles in anesthesia care.
Step 3: Complete Program Coursework
Doctoral coursework is designed to provide advanced knowledge and research skills. Expect a mix of core courses, seminars, practicums, labs, and electives, culminating in a dissertation or capstone project. The specific coursework varies depending on your field of study. For example, an EdD program might focus on innovation theory and research methods, while a PsyD program will delve into psychopathology, clinical theory, and multicultural awareness.
Doctoral coursework, whether online or in-person, is rigorous and demanding. At this level, you’ll engage with complex real-world problems, explore innovative solutions, and contribute to scholarly research.
Step 4: Complete Your Dissertation
The dissertation is the capstone of most doctorate programs. It’s a substantial research project where you contribute original knowledge to your field. You’ll develop and present your own theories, research, or data analysis, or build upon existing scholarly work. Dissertations are typically lengthy written documents, ranging from 100 to 300 pages, depending on the field and research scope.
How Long Does it Take to Earn a Doctorate?
The duration to complete a doctorate program varies, generally ranging from three to eight years. Factors influencing the timeline include:
- Program Structure: Some programs are designed for accelerated completion.
- Study Pace: Full-time versus part-time enrollment affects completion time.
- Dissertation Research: The time needed to research, write, and defend your dissertation can vary significantly.
- Degree Type: Some doctoral degrees may have different typical durations.
National University’s flexible and accelerated programs are designed to help students complete their degrees efficiently. For example, their PsyD program can be completed in about five years, while their EdD and DNAP programs can be finished in as little as three years, with online and hybrid learning options available.
Demand for Doctoral Degrees
The demand for doctorate holders is increasing across various sectors. Industries are seeking individuals with specialized knowledge and advanced research capabilities. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 13% growth in doctoral and professional-level occupations from 2016 to 2026, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This demand is particularly strong in healthcare, education, and technology, where doctoral expertise is highly valued for innovation and leadership.
Salary Expectations for a Doctorate Degree
Beyond personal and intellectual fulfillment, a doctorate degree offers significant financial rewards. It opens doors to higher-paying, specialized positions and can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
BLS data demonstrates a clear correlation between doctoral degrees and higher earnings. According to the BLS, doctorate holders earn a median weekly pay significantly higher than those with master’s, bachelor’s, or associate’s degrees. While pursuing a doctorate is a substantial investment, it offers a strong return on investment through increased lifelong earning potential, especially when combined with scholarships and financial aid.
Who Is a Good Fit for a Doctoral Program?
Doctoral programs are best suited for individuals who are passionate about in-depth research and dedicated to advancing knowledge in their field. Ideal candidates possess intellectual curiosity, strong analytical skills, perseverance, and a commitment to rigorous academic work.
According to Andy Riggle, Associate Vice President, Office of Graduate Studies at National University, “NU’s Doctoral programs are designed to accommodate non-traditional working students with diverse responsibilities… Our flexible online approach and individualized faculty mentoring support busy schedules, helping students achieve their doctorate dreams and contribute significantly to their communities.”
Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Career?
A doctorate degree is a powerful credential that enhances your career prospects in diverse fields, from medicine and psychology to engineering and law. If you are driven to challenge yourself and reach the highest level of expertise in your field, taking the first step towards a doctorate degree is a rewarding decision. Contact our admissions office to explore doctorate programs and accreditation, or apply online today to begin your journey.
