What Is a Doctorate Degree: Everything You Need To Know

If you want to take your education to another level, a doctorate might be what you seek. It is recognized as the highest level of academic achievement across various professional fields. However, that is a very vague description, and if anything, it leaves you with more questions.

Hence, in this guide, we will try to clarify and answer all of your questions about a doctorate degree. Let’s start with the most obvious one: What is a doctorate degree?

What Is a Doctorate Degree?

Many students choose doctoral degrees to narrow and deepen their field of knowledge. It is the highest type of degree you can attain in a given field. Students who earn a Ph.D. are advanced graduates or professionals who demonstrate mastery in their subject area.

Doctoral degrees typically take four years, and the number of credits needed for completion depends on the program. Most doctoral programs require the realization of a research thesis. Hence, it emphasizes research and practice. While a Ph.D. is not required for every position, earning one will help you develop your career in several ways.

Types of Doctorate Degrees

Now that we answered the question “what is a doctorate degree”, let’s explore the types of doctorate degrees.

There are two types of doctorate degrees: research-oriented and applied doctorate. Keep reading to find out more about these two types of doctorate degrees.

1. Research oriented (PhD)

Doctor of Philosophy is the most often used title for a research-focused (usually known as Ph.D.) degree. The term “philosophy” in “Doctor of Philosophy” alludes to the idea of investigation and pursuit of knowledge rather than the discipline of philosophy. That’s because two of the most crucial elements of this degree are the thesis and the research.

The following are some topics for doctoral degrees with a research focus:

• Philosophy (Ph.D.)
• Arts (D.A.)
• Education (Ed.D.)
• Business Management (Ph.D.)
• Public Health (DPH)
• Theology (Th.D.)

2. Professional application degree

A professional doctorate, commonly referred to as an applied doctorate or terminal doctorate, focuses on applying a subject in practical settings. You should probably pursue this type of degree to advance your career, follow senior corporate positions, obtain teaching qualifications in your profession, or launch a consulting business.

The professional doctorate program will inspire you to conduct research, identify problems in your field, and offer a workable solution. In contrast to doctorates that emphasize research, these degrees, depending on the institution, can require a dissertation (thesis).

How Does a Doctorate Work?

The four stages of coursework that make up the traditional doctoral degree program are the research core, major focus area, electives, and dissertation.

1. Research core

In the majority of Ph.D. programs, you start your path to your degree with a common core of classes. The research core lays the groundwork for the fundamental skills you’ll need in order to carry out the necessary work for the degree.

Advanced writing techniques, research methodology and design, applied statistics, colloquium courses, and qualitative and quantitative research and analysis courses are frequently included in this core curriculum.

2. Major focus area

When the research core is finished, you will typically enroll in courses related to your primary study area. For instance, you will take courses in organizational behavior, organizational systems, critical thinking and decision-making, ethics, and change management if you’re pursuing a DBA (Doctor of Business Administration).

You will probably study courses in healthcare policy and legislation, healthcare economics and finance, quality improvement and process improvement, and health information governance if you’re pursuing a DHA (Doctor of Healthcare Administration).

On the other hand, if you are pursuing a Ph.D. in human services, you will likely take advanced study courses in research methodologies for public service, social impacts on behavior, ethics in decision-making, and advanced communication for the human services leader.

3. Electives

Most Ph.D. programs also require you to take electives in your area of study. This gives you a well-rounded viewpoint that will enable you to apply your degree in real-world settings.

Suppose you wish to use your doctorate in the field of public health. In that case, you can take a course from the DHA track if you’re pursuing a DPS (Doctor of Professional Studies) with a concentration in instructional design leadership.

4. Dissertation

A dissertation typically consists of a five-chapter thesis divided into three parts. Firstly, you submit a prospectus for the dissertation committee’s approval. Then, you write the first chapters of your dissertation, and then you start gathering data.

Finally, you prepare a dissertation and present a verbal defense to the program directors. Since the primary goal of an applied doctorate is to develop a solution to a real-world problem, the dissertation for candidates may differ.

The Length and Costs of Pursuing a Doctorate Degree

A doctorate degree requires at least 60 to 120 semester credit hours (or about 20-40 college classes). The majority of PhDs take a total of 120 hours, although most applied doctorates are on the lower end of the spectrum.

The course duration also depends on the subject area you are pursuing and the type of program offered by the university. A doctorate usually takes 4 to 6 years, whereas a Ph.D. can take up to 8 years.

A doctorate degree generally qualifies for more grant funding than a master’s degree. The type of school, the kind of doctorate degree, the duration of the program, and the amount of financial aid available are a few factors that could influence the entire cost of a doctorate. According to Education Data Initiative, the average cost of a doctorate degree from a public university is $72,990, whereas from a private one can go up to $101,810.

The Bottom Line

A doctorate is very valuable in a society where knowledge is the new “fuel.” Such a degree can be a requirement to enter the workforce if you want to become an authority in your profession and possibly teach at educational institutions.

A doctoral program is a large financial investment yielding a sizable return. If you have any other uncertainty about a doctorate degree, feel free to reach out!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to earn a doctorate degree?

The duration varies depending on the program, field of study, and whether the student is studying full-time or part-time. Generally, it can take anywhere from 3 to 7 years to complete a doctorate degree.

What are the main components of a doctorate program?

Most doctorate programs include coursework, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation or thesis. The dissertation involves conducting original research and defending the findings before a committee of experts.

Is a doctorate degree necessary for certain careers?

A doctorate degree is essential for careers in academia, research, and certain specialized professions. For example, becoming a university professor or a research scientist typically requires a Ph.D., while advanced clinical positions in medicine or psychology may require specific doctorate degrees.

How does one apply for a doctorate program?

The application process usually involves submitting an application form, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and sometimes standardized test scores. Each program may have specific requirements and deadlines.

Are there financial aid options available for doctorate students?

Yes, there are various financial aid options, including scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, and grants. Some programs also offer tuition waivers or stipends in exchange for teaching or research responsibilities.

Can I pursue a doctorate degree part-time or online?

Many institutions offer part-time or online doctorate programs, though the availability and format vary by field of study. Part-time programs allow for more flexibility, but students should be prepared for the demands of rigorous research and coursework.