Understanding PhD and Professional Doctorate Degrees: What's the Difference

09  May  2024

Pursuing a doctoral study pathway is a significant, defining, and transformative experience that can shape one's academic and professional life. This exposes two distinguished forms: the PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) and the Professional Doctorate. While these degrees signify the highest level of educational attainment, they are for different purposes and serve different interests.

The PhD is research-focused for those who desire to create new knowledge, contribute to the field, and look for careers in academia and highly research-intensive organisations. On the other hand, the Professional Doctorate is practice-based and aims to use research to solve practical problems, improve professional practices, and lead organisations in the field.

It is essential to understand these differences because they come into consideration when considering one's career path, scholarship type, and impact one wishes to create in their field. This blog aims to clarify doctoral degrees so that readers understand the difference between these pathways, which will help them choose the path of their academic pursuit and develop their professional future. Let's explore the nuances of these doctoral pathways and pick the one that best suits your aspirations and career goals.

What is a PhD?

A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is the highest academic degree a university awards to most disciplines of study. A PhD usually indicates that an individual has acquired a deep understanding of a specific discipline and has attained a high level of proficiency in that area. The essential feature of a PhD is the research that contributes to the body of knowledge, adding to the frontiers of academic thought.

A typical PhD program will include the following elements:

• Coursework: During this period, the candidate normally takes advanced courses in the specific field that provide a transparent foundation for further studies. Students are taught the concepts of research and the principles of performing it, as the research process is the next phase of education and can take several years.
• Research: Research, which takes precedence after the extensive coursework of PhD students, marks the next phase of their study. PhD scholars are required to propose a research question, develop a methodology to execute the research, and work on a long and detailed research process, usually directly under the supervision of a supervisor.
• Thesis/Dissertation: The upcoming and core integral stage of a PhD is completing the thesis or dissertation. A dissertation is an extensive and substantial piece of writing where the candidate discloses research results they got through a methodology and tests they carried out. It exposes the candidate's capacity to research independently and generate new understanding or theories of the field.
• Examination Process: The last stage of completing the PhD is an exam that consists of a general examination and defense of the dissertation qualification. In the dissertation defense, the candidate's research is openly presented, and answers the questions from the panels.

The whole PhD program is designed to prepare individuals to become scholars who can conduct high-quality, independent research. It equips them with the necessary skills for a career in academia, research institutions, and sometimes in the specialised departments of the private sector that demand profound analytical and research skills.

What is a Professional Doctorate?

A Professional Doctorate is a Doctoral degree awarded to professionals with specific qualifications, focusing on applying research to contemporary events within their practice field. In contrast to the PhD, which avails for research application in theoretical and empirical scholarship, the Professional Doctorate is designed for practical application. It addresses some of the most complex problems in practice within industry and profession.

The structure of a Professional Doctorate program typically includes:

1. Taught Courses: Students acquire skills through main coursework that provides advanced knowledge and skills relevant to the professional field. Courses are designed to fill the gaps that exist in some occupations; hence, they reinforce the professionals in the program.
2. Professional Practice: Integrating professional practice with academic learning is a significant component of the professional doctorate. This may involve applied work in the candidate's current professional setting or a new context related to their field.
3. Research Components: Research in a Professional Doctorate program aims to apply theory to practice. It involves identifying a problem in the professional field, researching it, and developing practical solutions or advancements.
4. Project Work: The program's culmination is often a project or portfolio demonstrating the candidate's ability to apply research to professional practice. This could be a practice-based, consultancy, or applied research project with direct implications for professional work.

A Professional Doctorate is ideal for those who wish to deepen their professional expertise and significantly impact their field through applied research. It is particularly suited for professionals aspiring to leadership roles or seeking to implement evidence-based improvements in their practice.

Key Differences Between PhD and Professional Doctorate Degrees

PhD candidates are typically profoundly interested in a particular academic discipline and looking to establish themselves as experts in that field. They may have career goals, including teaching at the university level, conducting research, or working in highly specialised roles requiring deep analytical skills.

Professional Doctorate candidates are usually seasoned professionals with substantial experience in their field who are looking to further their careers by applying research to solve complex problems. They often aim for leadership positions or seek to implement evidence-based practices to improve outcomes in their professional settings.

Both degrees require a significant commitment and are rigorous in their ways. Still, their choice depends mainly on the candidate’s career aspirations and how they wish to apply their expertise.

Choosing the Right Path: Factors to Consider

Choosing between a PhD and a Professional Doctorate is a pivotal decision that hinges on several key factors. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this choice:

1. Career Aspirations: Think about where you want to be professionally; it is essential to remember which type of career you would like to plan for and set goals to achieve. If you are interested in being active in science academia and its research, where you must create new theories and knowledge, then a PhD can lead you to your path. On the contrary, one type of Professional Doctorate may be more appropriate if your ambitions are to ascend to leadership roles or to conference your professional practice within your profession area.
2. Research vs. Practical Application: Look at your best bent on theoretical analysis rather than practical application. A PhD concentrates on all-around research activities in producing and furthering academic understanding. In contrast, a Professional Doctorate is concerned with putting research insights to use for the inception and implementation of solutions in a practical setting.
3. Time Commitment: Make sure you can dedicate the time needed. PhD programs typically last between 3 to 7 years, on a full-time basis, without any breaks, and the duration depends on the candidate's assistance and the type of specialisation. A Professional Doctorate education is more flexible, and you can work alongside your studies; however, your studies have to be assigned significant importance, and you must invest your time there.
4. Accreditation and Recognition: Ensure your chosen program has been accredited and earns the trust of your field. Accreditation means that the program meets certain quality criteria and certifies this degree, which will also be valid for employers and educational facilities.
5. Personal Interest and Motivation: Your subject matter interest and the possibility associated with the advanced study are only the factors that can influence the choice of such a program. Take the lane that activates your inner interest and agrees with the outcomes you aim to achieve in your field.
6. Financial Considerations: Consider the fund to be invested and the chances of its return. Moreover, you need to seek grants, scholarships, and the salary rise every degree brings to your professional life.

By carefully weighing these factors, you can choose a doctoral path that aligns with your professional aspirations, personal interests, and the realities of your current situation. Remember, the right choice brings you closer to your career objectives while fitting into your life and values.

Career Outcomes and Opportunities

Pursuing a doctoral degree, either a PhD or a Professional Doctorate, would increase your professional standing and expand your opportunities for career promotion. Here follow the potential career paths and opportunities that each degree offers:

PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)

• Academia: A traditional and highly sought-after career path for PhD holders is in academia. This includes positions as professors, lecturers, and researchers at universities and colleges, where they can continue to conduct research and teach the next generation of scholars.
• Research: Many PhD graduates find roles in research institutions, government agencies, and think tanks, where they can focus on conducting studies that contribute to their field of study.
• Industry Research and Development: Some industries, particularly those that are science—and technology-driven, value the deep expertise of Ph. D.s in their research and development departments.
• Consultancy: PhD holders may also work as consultants, offering specialised knowledge to solve complex problems for various organisations.

Professional Doctorate:

• Industry Leadership: Graduates often move into higher management and leadership roles within their industry, leveraging their advanced knowledge and research skills to drive strategic decisions and innovation.
• Consultancy: Similar to Ph. Ds, Professional Doctorate holders can provide consultancy services, but they focus on applying research to practical industry challenges.
• Professional Practice: In fields like education, psychology, business, and healthcare, a Professional Doctorate can lead to advanced practice roles where individuals can implement new strategies and practices based on their research findings.
• Policy Development: Doctorate-holding professionals may influence policy within their sector by using their research to advocate for evidence-based policy changes.

Final Thoughts: PhD vs. Professional Doctorate Degrees

The road to doctorate status is an endearing journey involving strengths to maximise both academic and professional potential. One of the main differences between a professional doctorate and a PhD is that the former offers specific skills applicable in various professional settings.

Pondering what path to take regarding your dreams, passions, and aspirations for society is crucial as you face the intersection of higher education on your way to your academic accomplishment. Choosing between a Doctor of Philosophy degree and a Professional Doctorate will impact your future success.

A balance should be sought between the short-term effect of the decision and the long-term impact. Ponder where you want to be in ten years, what legacy you would like, and how you can add to the field or discipline. Carefully consider your options and expectations to select the doctoral degree that is right for you. It will be a great start to your fulfilling and meaningful career.

Let's stay connected

Leave your contact details to receive our events and course updates.