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 degree branches (i.e., professional doctorates and first professional degrees) represent the highest academic degree in certain fields, they prepare students for professional practices as company leaders, lawyers, general practitioners, etc. This article explores the PhD vs doctorate distinction and doctoral titles in detail.
What Are 3 Major Categories in Doctoral Degrees?
Selecting the appropriate academic or career path requires an understanding of the various kinds of doctoral degrees. Despite the widespread belief that all “doctorates” have the same function, doctoral education actually falls into three major categories, each with unique career paths and outcomes. The most well-known route is the PhD, which is a research doctorate focused on generating new knowledge via scientific investigation and research. Professional doctorates, on the other hand, concentrate on using advanced research to fulfill real-world leadership positions in particular industries. Lastly, graduates with first professional degrees are eligible for licensure in highly regulated professions like law or medicine. Examining these categories makes it easier to determine which degree best suits individual objectives.
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, e.g., STEM, education, humanities, and others. 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 oral examination (viva) before a panel of examiners. A full-time Ph.D. journey typically takes 3-6 years. It prepares graduates for careers in academia as professors. Still, they are also valuable for research-intensive roles in industry and government institutions.
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 Ph.D. 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 Ph.D. 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 Ph.D. 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.
What is a Professional Doctorate?
In most non-STEM fields, such as education, public health, business administration, physical therapy, design, arts, and nursing practice, students typically pursue professional doctorates rather than research-based PhDs. Examples include Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Design (DDes), and Doctor of Arts (DA). Professional doctorates are designed for experienced practitioners seeking advanced leadership and applied research skills within their profession. Unlike PhD programs, which focus on generating theoretical knowledge, professional doctorates emphasize solving real-world problems using evidence-based strategies.
Coursework centers on management, innovation, policy, and organizational transformation, followed by an applied dissertation or capstone project demonstrating impact in professional practice. Graduates pursue senior executive roles, advanced clinical practice, educational leadership, and policy development, contributing directly to improved outcomes in their field. These degrees ensure that professional environments continue to evolve through informed decision-making, high-level expertise, and the practical application of research within complex workplace settings.
What is a First Professional Degree?
In regulated fields like medicine, dentistry, law, pharmacy, and veterinary science, first professional degrees (such as MD, JD, DDS, and PharmD) prepare students for licensure and clinical or legal practice. Despite having the title of “Doctor”/”Dr.”, these degrees differ greatly from academic doctorates in that they emphasize professional competency over the production of scholarly research. To guarantee that graduates fulfill stringent industry standards and legal requirements for practice, programs combine in-depth theoretical coursework with practical clinical or hands-on training. To work in fields that support justice, safety, and public health, these degrees are necessary. Their goal is to prepare skilled professionals to provide knowledgeable services to society, not to increase knowledge through research.
What Fields Offer both PhD and Professional Doctorate?
Depending on their career goals, students can choose between a research-driven PhD and a practice-oriented professional doctorate. Education, business management, psychology, social work, public health, nursing, engineering, physical therapy, and fine arts or design are among the common fields that offer both professional doctoral pathways and PhDs. In these disciplines, the terms “professional doctorate” and “PhD” do not overlap and are not interchangeable. They allow students to select either a professional track that focuses on using advanced research to lead innovation in practice (for a professional doctorate) or an academic track that focuses on producing original research and contributing new knowledge (for a PhD). Both paths support advanced professional development and are indicative of doctoral-level accomplishment. Let’s explore an example:
Example: EdD vs PhD in Education
An EdD (Doctor of Education) and a PhD in Education both represent terminal degrees in the field, but they serve different purposes. The main focus of a PhD in education is research, and it is intended for people who want to advance academic scholarship by conducting original research and teaching at the university level. An EdD, on the other hand, prepares leaders for positions in organizational improvement, educational policy, and school administration by emphasizing the application of research to address practical educational problems. Although both degrees call for in-depth coursework and a dissertation or capstone project, the EdD places more emphasis on professional practice, leadership, and evidence-based decision-making in educational systems, while the PhD stresses theoretical inquiry and academic careers.
Conclusion
Understanding the distinctions between a PhD, a professional doctorate, and a first professional degree is essential to selecting the best doctoral pathway. Despite being regarded as advanced credentials, each has a unique function in further education and professional advancement. The goal of a PhD is to increase knowledge through original research, typically leading to careers in academia or research. Professional doctorates, however, prepare graduates for advanced leadership roles in professional settings by applying research to solve real-world problems. First professional degrees, on the other hand, offer the credentials needed to obtain a license in a regulated profession like law or medicine. Students can match their educational choices with their long-term professional objectives and aspirations by being aware of these differences.
| Category | Research Focus | Practice Focus | Licensure Requirement | Dissertation Writing? | Dissertation Defense? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PhDs | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Professional Doctorates | ✅ (applied) | ✅ | ✅ (sometimes) | ✅ (applied) | ✅ |
| First Professional Degrees | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ (but, clinical examinations or licensing exams) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a PhD the same as a doctorate?
Yes and No! The PhD vs doctorate question comes from a misconception. A Ph.D. is one type of doctorate, specifically focused on research and academic contributions. Other types (professional doctorates and first professional degrees) 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.
Which doctorate is highest in rank?
Both PhDs and professional doctorates are terminal degrees. The “highest” depends on the career path: academic vs professional practice.
Can I call myself “Doctor”/”Dr.” with a professional doctorate?
Yes. Holders of both Ph.D. and professional doctorate degrees are entitled to use the title “Doctor”/”Dr.”. However, in academic settings, the Doctor of Philosophy is usually associated with research expertise, while professional doctorates signal specialized professional mastery.
Can a professional doctorate lead to teaching at universities?
Yes, especially in practice-focused disciplines, but a PhD is generally preferred for research-intensive academic positions.
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 between professional doctorate and PhD?
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.
Are first professional degrees considered doctorates?
They use the title “Doctor”/”Dr.”, but academically, they are not considered research or scholarly doctorates.
Do all doctoral students write a dissertation?
PhDs always do. Most professional doctorates include a dissertation or applied project. First professional degrees usually do not.
Which doctoral path is best for earning potential?
It depends on the field! Physicians, dentists, pharmacists, and lawyers often earn more in clinical or legal practice, while research careers vary by discipline.