PhD Basics: Definition, Doctorate Difference & Structures

PhD is the abbreviation of the Latin term Philosophiae Doctor, which translates to Doctor of Philosophy in English. A PhD represents the highest degree level in many academic fields, including chemical engineering, computer science, chemistry, biology, management, philosophy, and more. Importantly, a PhD is a subcategory of the broader doctorate family and should not be confused with other professional doctorates, such as the Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Education (EdD), or Doctor of Public Health (DrPH). This guide explores the PhD vs doctorate distinction in detail and outlines the different PhD structures that exist across academic systems worldwide.

PhD vs Doctorate Difference Explained

Why does the PhD vs doctorate debate exist? Many people assume a PhD and a doctorate are the same, but this is a misconception. A PhD is one type of doctorate, specifically research-focused, while other professional doctorates represent the highest degree in certain fields. For example, disciplines like mechanical engineering, civil engineering, psychology, law, and chemistry typically culminate in a PhD. However, areas such as medicine (MD), education (EdD), business administration (DBA), or nursing practice (DNP) instead award professional doctorates as their terminal qualifications. Therefore, while the terms may overlap in some contexts, they are not interchangeable across all academic disciplines.

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Different Types of PhD Position Structures

Generally, there are two main Doctor of Philosophy categories: structured PhD programs and individual PhDs (also termed as PhD research projects). The structured positions can be divided into two subcategories: a fully structured format (known as a structured PhD) and a partially structured format (known as a semi-structured PhD). Both structured and individual formats include an independent research project that should be completed by writing a PhD dissertation and holding a PhD viva. The following distinct criteria set the structured PhD program apart from individual PhD research project positions:

1. Universities’ schools and departments (or their associated graduate offices), universities’ graduate schools, and non-university research institutes’ research schools manage the application process and oversee the progress of the structured PhD programs. However, as the primary university correspondence, research supervisors manage the application process and oversee individual PhD positions.
2. While the schools and departments (actually their admission committees) select multiple PhD candidates from a pool of usually hundreds of applicants for structured PhD programs, a supervisor chooses only one candidate for an individual PhD position from a pool of usually tens of applicants. Thus, the number of students who apply for structured programs is way higher than those applying for PhD research project positions.
3. Those accepted to PhD program positions might choose their research topic within their first or second year, depending on the country. In France, all applicants to structured PhDs should define their research thesis topic with the help of a supervisor before submitting an application. However, in Australia and the UK, only some applicants to structured PhDs might know their exact thesis topic before starting their PhD. On the other hand, individual PhDs always have predefined titles, enabling the students to choose their research topic as they wish.
4. Those who are accepted into PhD programs usually work on an interdisciplinary research project under the supervision of multiple academic supervisors. On the contrary, a student collaborates closely with a single supervisor on a particular research topic in an individual PhD position.
5. Structured PhD programs typically feature a defined curriculum with mandatory coursework, exams at the end of each semester, seminars, and workshops. Students in structured PhD programs usually complete coursework in the first 1–2 years, covering research methodologies and subject-specific knowledge. In short, the structured PhD adds a layer of taught modules in relevant disciplinary and specialist areas.

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Fully Structured PhD Programs (North America)

If a PhD position meets all the criteria associated with structured programs mentioned above, it is considered a fully structured PhD. This model is most common in North America, with virtually all PhD programs in the United States and Canada falling under this format (see PhD in USA and PhD in Canada articles). These programs usually take 4 to 6 years full-time (6 to 8 part-time) and combine coursework, comprehensive exams, seminars, workshops, and original research. Students follow a defined curriculum in the early years, before advancing into research and dissertation writing. As long as applicants enter with a master’s degree, this model is referred to as the regular PhD pathway.

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Direct PhD Programs Without a Master’s Degree

These incorporate the master’s degree into a longer, usually five- to six-year doctoral program. There are numerous regional names for the format, including fast-track PhD in Germany, integrated PhD in the UK and Australia, direct PhD in the USA, direct-entry PhD in Canada, and PhD tracks in France. In STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields, where students start advanced coursework and research shortly after earning their bachelor’s degree, these programs are especially prevalent. Through this pathway, highly qualified candidates can continue to receive extensive training and supervision while accelerating their academic journey.

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Semi-Structured PhD Programs (UK, France, Germany, Australia)

If one of the core conditions mentioned above for a structured PhD program is only partially met, the program is categorized as a semi-structured format. Let’s have a look at two different scenarios: (i) If the condition #5 is partially met (imagine no final exams), like a PhD in UK, a PhD in France, or a PhD in Germany, it is referred to as a semi-structured PhD program. (ii) If condition #5 is completely irrelevant and the other four conditions are met, like a PhD in Australia, it is referred to as a PhD research program (i.e., a subcategory of semi-structured PhD programs that are less-focused on training workshops and seminars compared to other countries).

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Individual PhDs (PhD Research Projects)

Individual PhDs are typically found at European universities and research institutes. The ratio of individual to structured format varies from one country to another (read the PhD in France and PhD in Germany articles). In this format, students usually work with a single main PhD supervisor. There are no required coursework requirements for this kind of PhD, which gives you more freedom to select your schedule. The individual PhDs are typically funded by a research grant won by supervisors and group leaders in academia and research institutes. You should apply for a PhD research project position with a supervisor whose experience matches your research interests for an enhanced admission chance.

This model is perfect for self-driven independent researchers who value independence and merely want to focus on their dissertation. Depending on the country, field of study, and rate of the student’s research advancement, a full-time funded individual PhD could last 3 to 4 years. The majority of fields, including chemistry, physics, biology, engineering, the humanities, social sciences, and many more, use this PhD model. Deep specialization is made possible by an individual PhD position, where students customize their studies to address particular research questions.

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Joint or Dual PhD Format

Joint PhD programs are a type of structured PhD and are common in European countries (see PhD in Netherlands guide). They involve collaboration between a host university and a partner university (usually an international institution), allowing students to earn a dual degree issued and awarded jointly by both parties. Students enroll at a host university and a partner university, with a joint PhD agreement outlining supervision and requirements. Such a dual position is supervised by at least two PhD supervisors, one in each of the two institutions. It typically involves one dissertation, defended at one of the institutions, with examiners from both sides. These joint programs enhance the international scope of a PhD, ideal for those seeking early global networking.

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Conclusion

In summary, a PhD is the most common research doctorate in the world and, in many fields, it signifies the pinnacle of academic achievement. Although the PhD vs doctorate debate frequently leads to misunderstandings, it is important to keep in mind that a PhD is only one kind of doctorate, while professional doctorates are the highest degree in some fields. Candidates can select the best course based on their objectives, research preferences, and academic background by being aware of the various PhD position structures, including structured, semi-structured, individual research projects, and joint programs. Prospective researchers should consider country-specific formats when evaluating traditional, direct, or dual PhD programs to determine which one best suits their professional goals.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)