A frequently researched queries among career driven seasoned professionals is to get a clarification on the relationship between Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) and professional doctorate. Considering the fact that these are highest academic degrees, they share some similarities but differ in their focus and purpose. Before we delve into dissecting the crucial dissimilarities of these terminal degrees, it should be brought forth that both provide students the proficiency and expertise in their respective fields that aid in them to cultivate prestige in society as they go through the arduous academic journey of attaining the degree. In this article, we will provide an in-depth explanation of the basic difference between Professional Doctorate and PhD.
- A Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) mainly focuses on research and is oriented towards those pursuing scholarly careers. It requires students to undertake original research and make a noteworthy contribution to their particular field through a dissertation or thesis.
- A Professional Doctorate is designed for experienced professionals who aim for attaining the leadership position in various organizations while enhancing their functional expertise in the relevant field of interest. The involvement of conducting a research is to apply that research to solve real-world problems in a professional context. A Professional Doctorate program consists of a blend of academic coursework and practical training, with the final project or dissertation typically emphasizing real-world application.
Here are some key differences between Professional Doctorate and PhD
Objective
- A Professional Doctorate is intended to optimize the professional expertise and knowledge of an individual in the relevant occupational field.
- A Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) is meant to elevate the research skills of an individual in order to prepare them for a career in academia and research.
Focus
- A Professional Doctorate program focuses on the practical and functional aspects of a particular occupation.
- A Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) program is research focused and encompasses the development or creation of new theories needed for the advancement of an individual’s academic career.
Dissertation/Thesis
- In a professional Doctorate a dissertation or thesis is more practical and applied and it focuses on solving real-world challenges and problems.
- While in a PhD dissertation or thesis focuses completely on research that contributes to the evolution or progress in the field of study.
Career
- A Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) is an essential qualification entirely based on research required for a career in academia.
- A Professional Doctorate emphasises on upgrading professional skills and knowledge required for attaining leadership positions and career advancement in particular field of occupation.
Admission Requirements
- A Professional Doctorate program may require applicants to have substantial professional background along with a master's degree or equivalent qualification in the relevant field.
- A PhD program require applicants to have a bachelor's or master's degree in the relevant field required to exhibit research proficiency.
Networking
- A professional doctorate provides the combined benefits of collaborating and networking with experienced professionals, which in turn offers graduates the chance to enhance their knowledge and skills in the relevant field of business.
- A Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD)provides networking opportunity within the academic and research community, which is beneficial for graduates to enhance their career opportunity in the field of academia or research.
Flexibility
- A Professional doctorate is specially designed for working professionals, who can access professional doctorate degree programs online at their own pace and convenience.
- The flexibility of online learning is usually not available in a Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) programs.
How does studying PhD help?
A Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) is designed for graduates who are interested in doing applied research that enhances their existing knowledge in their field of interest.
- Explore principals and methodologies within your field.
- Scrutinize identified shortcomings in existing research
- Enhance the knowledge of your field with original research
- Facilitate clear communication to an academic audience
How does studying a professional doctorate help?
A professional doctorate is specially designed for mid-career professionals who are already equipped with the field-specific knowledge but are keen to increase their knowledge, advance their careers, and convert their experience for a position that imparts credibility, influence and leadership.
- Analyse the ever-changing current theories and practices relevant to their field of work
- Gain advanced skills in applied research and analysis to combat practical work place problems.
- Formulate meticulous research to enriches existing professional understanding in the relevant field.
Both Professional Doctorate and a Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) are doctoral-level qualifications that serve different purposes, and provide different outcomes. One can browse through the difference between Professional Doctorate and PhD before pursuing the one that career goals and qualifications.
In conclusion, the Professional Doctorate and the Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) are two distinct doctoral-level degrees that have different objectives and purpose. Both the degrees require high levels of intellectual rigor and advanced research capabilities. A Professional Doctorate is geared towards mid-career professionals who seek to enhance their professional skills in order to gain leadership positions in their respective fields, while a PhD is completely research based that provides advanced skills and knowledge in research methodology for individuals who are interested in pursuing an academic career.
Written By : Rajosree Sur