Why does the PhD vs doctorate confusion exist? Many people assume a PhD and a doctorate are the same, but this is a misconception. A Ph.D. is one type of doctorate, specifically a research-focused degree, with a dissertation that contributes to the advancement of knowledge in a research area or field of study, preparing students for academic and research-oriented job positions. For example, disciplines in STEM fields typically culminate in a PhD. While other doctoral branches (termed as professional doctorates) represent the highest academic degree in certain fields, they prepare students for professional practices as lawyers, general practitioners, etc. Although the terms PhD and doctorate may overlap in some contexts and fields, they are not interchangeable across all academic disciplines.
What is a Professional Doctorate?
In most non-STEM fields, such as medicine, education, public health, business administration, physical therapy, civil law, design, clinical dentistry, arts, and nursing practice, students typically pursue professional doctorates rather than research-based PhDs. Examples include the Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Civil Law (DCL), Doctor of Design (DDes), and Doctor of Arts (DA). In these disciplines, professional doctorates and PhDs do not overlap and are not interchangeable. In contrast, within STEM fields, Doctor of Philosophy and doctorate degrees are interchangeable across all disciplines. This is an important difference between PhD and doctorate to consider. For convenience, the following table lists the abbreviated forms of various professional doctoral titles.
Select a Doctoral Title
What is a PhD?
PhD is the abbreviation of the Latin term Philosophiae Doctor, which translates to Doctor of Philosophy in English. It represents the highest degree level in many academic fields worldwide, including chemical engineering, chemistry, physics, biology, philosophy, and applied mathematics. This prestigious qualification centers around a rigorous research-based endeavor, where candidates delve into the realms of original and substantial contributions to their chosen field. A cornerstone of this journey is writing a dissertation, often spanning 200-300 pages or 60,000-100,000 words. Ultimately, it must undergo a rigorous defense during an oral examination (viva) before a panel of esteemed experts. The journey towards a Doctor of Philosophy degree typically unfolds over a specific time frame (3-6 years full-time), depending on the destination.
What are the Different PhD Position Types and Structures?
If you are about to find a PhD for your future academic journey, understanding different types of it is essential. Generally, there are two main 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 and a partially structured format (known as a semi-structured format). Both structured and individual formats include an independent research project that should be completed by writing a dissertation and holding a viva. The following distinct criteria set the structured program apart from individual research project positions:
- 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.
- While the schools and departments (actually their admission committees) select multiple candidates from a pool of usually hundreds of applicants for structured Ph.D. 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 research project positions.
- Those accepted to program-based 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 programs might know their exact thesis topic before starting their studies. On the other hand, individual PhDs always have predefined titles, enabling the students to choose their research topic as they wish.
- Those who are accepted into program-based positions 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 Doctor of Philosophy position.
- Structured Ph.D. programs typically feature a defined curriculum with mandatory coursework, exams at the end of each semester, seminars, and workshops. Students in structured Doctor of Philosophy programs usually complete coursework in the first 1–2 years, covering research methodologies and subject-specific knowledge. In short, the structured Ph.D. adds a layer of taught modules in relevant disciplinary and specialist areas.
Structured PhD Programs
Fully Structured Ph.D. Programs (North America)
If a Doctor of Philosophy 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 Doctor of Philosophy programs in the United States and Canada falling under this format. 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 Doctor of Philosophy pathway.
Direct PhD Programs Without 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 this format, including fast-track Ph.D. in Germany, integrated Ph.D. in the UK and Australia, direct Ph.D. in the USA, direct-entry Ph.D. in Canada, and Ph.D. tracks in France. In STEM 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.
Semi-Structured PhD Programs (Australia, France, Germany, UK)
If one of the core conditions mentioned above for a structured Ph.D. 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 Ph.D. in the UK, France, or 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 Ph.D. in Australia, it is referred to as a PhD research program (i.e., a subcategory of semi-structured Doctor of Philosophy programs that are less-focused on training workshops and seminars compared to other countries).
Joint or Dual Ph.D. Format
Joint PhD programs are a type of semi-structured programs and are common in European countries like the Netherlands and France. 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 main 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, ideal for those seeking early global networking.
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 (for example, individual PhDs contribute to 75% of PhDs in Germany, while the structured format is dominant in France). In this format, students usually work with a single main supervisor. There are no required coursework requirements for this kind of Ph.D., which gives you more freedom to select your schedule. They 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 Doctor of Philosophy could last 3 to 4 years. The majority of fields, including chemistry, physics, biology, engineering, the humanities, social sciences, and many more, use this model. Deep specialization is made possible by an individual Ph.D. position, where students customize their studies to address particular research questions.
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. It is important to remember that a Doctor of Philosophy is only one kind of doctorate, while professional doctorates are the highest degree in some disciplines. Candidates who want to pursue a Ph.D. can select the best program based on their objectives, research preferences, and academic background by understanding the various Ph.D. structures (see the diagram below). Prospective researchers should also consider country-specific formats when evaluating traditional, direct, or dual PhD programs to determine which one best suits their professional goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a PhD the same as a doctorate?
No. A Ph.D. is one type of doctorate, specifically focused on research and academic contributions. Other types, called professional doctorates (e.g., MD, EdD, DBA), focus on advanced professional practice rather than research.
Which is harder: a PhD or a professional doctorate?
Both are equally demanding but in different ways. A PhD emphasizes original research, academic writing, and theoretical depth, while a professional doctorate focuses on applying advanced knowledge to solve real-world professional problems.
Can I call myself “Doctor” with a professional doctorate?
Yes. Holders of both Ph.D. and professional doctorate degrees are entitled to use the title “Doctor”. However, in academic settings, the Doctor of Philosophy is usually associated with research expertise, while professional doctorates signal specialized professional mastery.
Can I get a PhD without a master’s degree?
Yes, in many countries. Programs such as direct-entry, integrated, or fast-track PhDs combine master’s-level coursework with doctoral research, typically lasting 5–6 years full-time.
Which degree should I choose, PhD or professional doctorate?
It depends on your career goals. Choose a Ph.D. if you aim for an academic or research career. Choose a professional doctorate if you want to advance as a practitioner, executive, or industry leader in your professional field.