Embarking on the path to a doctoral degree is a significant decision, and you might find yourself pondering the nuances between a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a professional doctorate. Questions like “What exactly is a PhD?” or “Is a doctorate the same as a PhD?” are common as prospective students navigate their options. In many fields, the choice between a PhD and a professional doctorate presents itself, such as deciding between an Education Doctorate (EdD) or a PhD in Education. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in aligning your doctoral pursuit with your career aspirations.
Decoding the PhD: Doctor of Philosophy Explained
The abbreviation PhD stands for “Doctor of Philosophy.” This prestigious title represents the highest academic achievement in a vast array of disciplines. Despite the name, the PhD’s scope extends far beyond the realm of philosophy, encompassing fields from the natural sciences and humanities to social sciences and engineering. The term “philosophy” here embodies a commitment to the love of wisdom and the pursuit of knowledge, reflecting the intensive original research at the heart of PhD studies. Achieving a PhD typically involves several years of rigorous coursework, comprehensive examinations, and the culmination of a dissertation or thesis—a substantial piece of scholarly work that contributes novel insights to the field.
The journey to a PhD is intellectually stimulating and demanding, cultivating critical thinking, in-depth research skills, and unwavering dedication. Candidates are expected to demonstrate not only mastery of their chosen subject but also the ability to generate original, impactful research that pushes the boundaries of current understanding. This process sharpens expertise and cultivates crucial skills in problem-solving, analytical reasoning, and effective communication. Upon graduation, PhD holders are recognized as subject matter experts, well-prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, and various professional sectors that value advanced knowledge and sophisticated research capabilities.
To directly address the question, “Is a PhD a doctor?”, the answer is unequivocally yes. Both a PhD and professional doctorates, such as an EdD, confer the title of “doctor.” However, important distinctions exist between these doctoral degree types, which we will explore further.
Professional Doctorate: A Different Path to Expertise?
Both professional doctorates and PhDs are classified as terminal degrees, signifying the highest level of formal academic qualification in a given field. Earning either degree marks a significant achievement that can substantially enhance your career prospects and earning potential. For instance, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that doctoral degree holders typically earn approximately 20% more per week compared to those holding a master’s degree.¹ This highlights the tangible benefits of pursuing doctoral-level education.
When considering a professional doctorate versus a PhD, the primary distinction lies in their focus. A PhD is fundamentally an academic degree, emphasizing theoretical research, rigorous data analysis, and the critical evaluation of existing theories. Conversely, a professional doctorate is oriented towards the practical application of research. It focuses on using established knowledge to solve real-world problems, develop innovative solutions to complex challenges, and design effective, evidence-based professional practices within a specific domain.
PhD vs. Professional Doctorate: Is One “Higher” Than the Other?
It’s a common misconception to think of a PhD as inherently “higher” than a professional doctorate. In reality, neither degree holds a superior rank. Both PhDs and professional doctorates represent the pinnacle of educational attainment. They are both doctoral degrees, each with its own distinct focus and purpose.
Examples of professional doctoral degrees include the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and Doctor of Public Health (DrPH). Correspondingly, one could pursue a PhD in Management, PhD in Education, PhD in Nursing, or PhD in Public Health. All of these are doctoral-level qualifications, with some categorized as professional doctorates and others as PhDs, reflecting their different orientations rather than hierarchical levels.
Key Distinctions: Professional Doctorate and PhD
The choice between a PhD and a professional doctorate hinges on your individual academic and career goals. While both are doctoral degrees, their educational objectives and typical career trajectories diverge significantly.
When making your decision, it’s important to recognize that both PhDs and professional doctorates offer unique strengths. Your choice should be guided by your specific interests, the nature of your desired field of study, and how you intend to apply your doctoral expertise. The table below summarizes the core differences between these two doctoral paths:
| Key Areas | PhD | Professional Doctorate |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | Advance the field through theoretical research. Construct new knowledge or theories. | Advance the field by applying an existing body of knowledge, research, and theory. Enrich your knowledge base and research skills for practical application. |
| Outcomes | Conduct in-depth theoretical research. Pursue tenured academic positions in higher education and research-intensive roles. | Practice at an advanced level in the field and ascend to leadership roles. Potentially teach in higher education institutions, often with a practice-focused approach. |
| Student Population | Individuals seeking careers in academia and theoretical research. Those passionate about contributing to the theoretical foundations of their discipline. | Experienced professionals aiming to solve practical problems within their field. Individuals seeking to enhance their professional practice and leadership capabilities. |
| Admission Requirements | Typically requires a Master’s degree, with a strong emphasis on research potential and academic excellence. | Usually requires a Master’s degree and significant professional experience in the relevant field. |
| Assessment | Culminates in a dissertation, a substantial piece of original research contributing to academic knowledge. | Typically involves a field-related doctoral study or applied research project, focused on practical problem-solving and professional application. |
Dissertation vs. Doctoral Study: Research Approaches
While university policies vary, the culminating projects for PhDs and professional doctorates—the dissertation and doctoral study, respectively—generally differ in their approach and objectives.
Doctoral Study: Applied Research for Practical Solutions
A doctoral study in a professional doctorate program typically centers on identifying a real-world problem within a specific field and conducting rigorous research to understand it deeply. The aim is to generate new insights that can lead to practical, implementable solutions. The doctoral study process often includes:
- Proposal Development: Creating a detailed proposal outlining the problem to be addressed, the study design, and the research methodology.
- Proposal Defense: Presenting and defending the research proposal orally to a committee of faculty experts.
- Data Collection and Analysis: Gathering relevant data and analyzing it to generate findings related to the research problem.
- Findings Defense: Orally defending the research findings and their implications to the committee.
Dissertation: Contributing to Academic Knowledge
In contrast, a PhD dissertation involves conducting in-depth research within a chosen area of study in a discipline. While dissertation research can explore uncharted territory, it often builds upon existing knowledge, aiming to expand, refine, or challenge current theories and understandings. The dissertation process typically includes:
- Dissertation Prospectus and Proposal Defense: Developing a dissertation prospectus, outlining the research question, methodology, and expected contributions, and defending it orally to a committee.
- Research Execution: Conducting the planned research, which may involve experiments, surveys, archival research, or other methods depending on the field.
- Dissertation Writing: Writing a comprehensive dissertation document that details the research methods, findings, literature review, analysis, and conclusions.
- Dissertation Defense: Presenting and defending the completed dissertation orally to a committee of experts, demonstrating mastery of the research and its implications.
Learning Outcomes: PhD vs. Professional Doctorate Skill Sets
A PhD program is tailored for individuals passionate about conducting original and applied research that tests theoretical frameworks and expands the existing body of knowledge in their chosen discipline. A PhD curriculum is designed to cultivate skills in:
- Theoretical Analysis: Analyzing complex theories and concepts within a field.
- Theoretical Evaluation: Evaluating the relevance and impact of seminal, current, and emerging theories.
- Gap Identification: Assessing gaps and limitations in existing research literature.
- Knowledge Advancement: Contributing to the body of knowledge through original and impactful research.
- Academic Communication: Communicating research findings effectively to academic audiences and broader stakeholders.
A professional doctorate, conversely, is designed for experienced professionals seeking to deepen their expertise, advance their careers, and translate their practical experience into enhanced credibility, leadership, and influence. A professional doctorate program typically focuses on developing abilities to:
- Practice Evaluation: Evaluating the relevance and effectiveness of current and emerging theories and practices within a professional field.
- Solution Formulation: Developing effective, evidence-based solutions to complex, real-world problems encountered in professional settings.
- Applied Research: Applying current research findings to solve practical challenges in a specific field.
- Professional Knowledge Expansion: Designing rigorous research that expands the professional body of knowledge and best practices in a field.
Fellowships: Funding Your Doctoral Studies
While not universally offered, many universities provide fellowship opportunities to support doctoral students. Fellowships, often associated with PhD programs focused on research, are also increasingly available for professional doctorate candidates, recognizing the value of applied research and practice-based scholarship.
Online Pathways to Your Doctorate: PhD and Professional Doctorate Options
Both PhD degrees and professional doctorates are increasingly accessible through online universities. Online education offers significant advantages, providing flexibility and convenience that traditional campus-based programs may not match.
Walden University, a reputable and accredited online institution, offers a wide array of professional doctorate and PhD degree programs online. Choosing an online program eliminates geographical constraints and commuting challenges. Online doctoral programs often feature flexible formats, allowing students to balance their studies with work and family commitments. With online programs like those at Walden, you can structure your learning around your existing schedule.
Explore Walden University’s online doctoral degree page to discover the diverse range of professional doctorate and PhD programs available. Learn how Walden’s comprehensive support system, including doctoral peer mentors and financial aid advisors, can contribute to a successful doctoral journey. For further insights into the doctoral experience, visit Walden’s doctoral journey page to understand the educational path, requirements, and funding options.
For any remaining questions about degree programs, admissions, financial aid, or other details, simply complete the online request form to connect with a Walden Enrollment Specialist who can provide the information you need to take the next step in your doctoral education.
Walden University is an accredited institution offering a range of PhD and professional doctoral programs online. Expand your career options and earn your degree in a convenient, flexible format that fits your busy life.
¹Source: www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2021/data-on-display/education-pays.htm
