The Difference Between a PhD & Doctorates
A debate regarding the difference between the Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) and the doctorate degree has been raging since the 1920s, when Harvard University first offered the alternative doctorate in lieu of the PhD. Most people use those two terms interchangeably, but they are not the same thing.
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Coursework
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PhD and doctorate degree programs both require rigorous coursework. However, the PhD coursework is often research oriented, while doctorate degree coursework is more focused on practice and application. In addition, the PhD coursework generally prepares candidates for a single subject or concentration in a specific field that can lead to research or a teaching position in a university.
Dissertation
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Doctorate and PhD candidates are both required to write a dissertation. The doctorate dissertation may focus on the application of theory and research in a general field, while the PhD dissertation tends to be more experimental, inquiry-based, and statistically sound, providing answers to a specific issue or research problem. In addition, the review requirements differ slightly. PhD programs almost always require a defense of the dissertation before a board of professors and scholars, while a doctorate dissertation may be submitted for review and assessed based on a written defense of a specific position.
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Degree Use
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PhD recipients typically use their degrees to continue research in a specific field or publish journals and scholarly books. Doctorate degree recipients often utilize their knowledge to better apply degree content in a specific practice or field. Both PhD and doctorate holders may choose to teach at the college level.
Academic Perception
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The perception of each degree in academia is significant. In general, the PhD is perceived as the most rigorous and prestigious degree due to the status academia places on research. It's commonly thought that those who have the ability to research and find solutions to problems (PhD holders) are more qualified and scholarly than those who simply apply research and theory (doctorate holders).
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References
- Photo Credit university graduate in robes image by Gina Smith from Fotolia.com
