why is phd called doctor of philosophy

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More than 54,000 students earned doctoral degrees in 2016, the latest year for which figures are available, a 30 percent increase since 2000, according to the  National Science Foundation . A Ph.D., also called a doctorate, is a "Doctor of Philosophy" degree, which is a misleading moniker because most Ph.D. holders are not philosophers. The term for this increasingly popular degree derives from the original meaning of the word "philosophy," which comes from the ancient Greek word  philosophia , meaning "love of wisdom."

What Is a Ph.D.?

In that sense, the term "Ph.D." is accurate, because the degree has historically been a license to teach, but it also signifies that the holder is an "authority, in full command of (a given) subject right up to the boundaries of current knowledge, and able to extend them," says  FindAPhD , an online Ph.D. database. Earning a Ph.D. requires a hefty financial and time commitment— $35,000 to $60,000  and two to eight years—as well as research, creating a thesis or dissertation, and possibly some teaching duties.

Deciding to pursue a Ph.D. can represent a major life choice. Doctoral candidates require additional schooling after completing a master's program to earn their Ph.D.: They must complete additional coursework, pass comprehensive exams , and complete an independent dissertation in their field. Once completed, though, a doctoral degree—often called a "terminal degree"—can open doors for the Ph.D.holder, especially in academia but also in business.

Core Courses and Electives

To obtain a Ph.D., you need to take a group of core courses as well as electives, totaling about 60 to 62 "hours," which are roughly the equivalent of units at the bachelor's degree level. For example, Washington State University offers a  Ph.D. in crop science . Core courses, which make up about 18 hours, include such subjects as introduction to population genetics, plant transmission genetics, and plant breeding.

Additionally, the student must make up the remaining required hours through electives. The  Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health  offers a doctoral degree in Biological Sciences in Public Health. After core courses such as laboratory rotations, biological sciences seminars, and core principles of biostatistics and epidemiology, the Ph.D. candidate is required to take electives in related fields such as advanced respiratory physiology, advanced respiratory physiology, and ecological and epidemiological control of parasitic diseases. Degree-granting institutions across the board want to ensure that those who earn Ph.D.s have broad knowledge in their chosen field.

Thesis or Dissertation and Research

A Ph.D. also requires students to complete a large scholarly project known as a  dissertation , a research report—usually 60-plus pages—which signifies that they are able to make significant independent contributions to their chosen field of study. Students take on the project, also known as a  doctoral thesis , after completing the core and elective coursework and passing a  comprehensive examination . Through the dissertation, the student is expected to make a new and creative contribution to a field of study and to demonstrate her expertise.

According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, for example, a strong medical dissertation relies heavily on the creation of a specific hypothesis that can be either disproved or supported by data collected through independent student research. Further, it must also contain several key elements starting with an introduction to the problem statement, conceptual framework, and research question as well as references to literature already published on the topic. Students must show that the  dissertation  is relevant, provides new insight into the chosen field, and is a topic that they can research independently.

Financial Aid and Teaching

There are several ways to pay for a doctoral degree: scholarships, grants, fellowships, and government loans, as well as teaching.  GoGrad , a graduate school information website, provides such examples as the:

• Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship for Service Program, which provides full tuition and an annual stipend of $25,000 to $38,000.
• National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship, a three-year graduate fellowship that is designed to support doctoral students across 15 engineering disciplines
• National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program, a three-year program that provides an annual stipend of $34,000 and a $12,000 cost-of-education allowance for tuition and fees

As it does for bachelor's and master's degrees, the federal government also offers several  loan programs  to help students finance their Ph.D. studies. You generally apply for these loans by filling out the free application for federal student aid ( FAFSA ). Students planning to go into teaching after obtaining their doctoral degrees often also supplement their income by teaching undergraduate classes at the schools where they are studying. The University of California, Riverside, for example, offers a "teaching award"—essentially a stipend applied toward tuition costs—for Ph.D. candidates in English who teach undergraduate, beginning-level, English courses

Jobs and Opportunities for Ph.D. Holders

Education accounts for a large percentage doctoral awards, with elementary education, curriculum and instruction, educational leadership and administration, special education, and counselor education/ school counseling topping the list. Most universities in the United States require a Ph.D. for candidates who seek teaching positions, regardless of the department.

Many Ph.D. candidates seek the degree, however, to boost their current salaries. For example, a health, sports, and fitness educator at a community college would realize a bump in annual pay for obtaining a Ph.D. The same holds for educational administrators. Most such positions require only a master's degree, but obtaining a Ph.D. generally leads to an annual stipend that school districts add to the annual salary. That same health and fitness instructor at a community college could also move on from a teaching position and become a dean at a community college—a position that requires a Ph.D.—boosting his pay to  $120,000 to $160,000  a year or more.

So, the opportunities for a doctoral degree holder are wide and varied, but the cost and commitment required are significant. Most experts say you should know your future career plans before you make the commitment. If you know what you want to get out of the degree, then the years of required study and sleepless nights may well be worth the investment.

• Understanding the Definition of a Doctoral Candidate
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• Admissions Interview? Be Prepared to Interview with Graduate Students
• A Step-By-Step Guide to Writing a Ph.D. Dissertation
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• A Note About Masters and Doctoral Comprehensive Exams
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Doctor Of Science Vs Phd: What Are The Key Differences?

For those considering an advanced research degree, two options often come to mind – the Doctor of Science (DSc) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). But what exactly is the difference between these two doctoral degrees?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine the key distinctions between the DSc and PhD, from program focus and format to career outlook, so you can determine which advanced degree is the best fit for your goals.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: While both are research-focused doctoral degrees, the main differences lie in prestige, structure, and research focus . The DSc is seen as a higher-level degree compared to the PhD.

DSc programs are less structured, take longer to complete, and focus more on applying research to practice, while PhDs are more academic and theory-based.

Overview of the Doctor of Science Degree

The Doctor of Science (DSc) degree is a prestigious academic title awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to their field of study. It is considered the highest level of academic achievement and is often seen as equivalent to a PhD.

However, there are some key differences between the two degrees.

What is a DSc?

A Doctor of Science degree is typically awarded in scientific or technical disciplines such as engineering, computer science, or natural sciences. It is a research-based degree that requires students to conduct extensive original research in their chosen field.

The focus of a DSc program is on advancing scientific knowledge and solving complex problems through research.

Unlike a PhD, which is more commonly awarded in social sciences, humanities, and some technical disciplines, the DSc is specifically designed for individuals who have already made significant contributions to their field and wish to further their expertise.

Program Format and Duration

The format and duration of DSc programs can vary depending on the university and field of study. However, most DSc programs are structured similarly to PhD programs, with a combination of coursework and research components.

On average, a DSc program can take anywhere from 3 to 5 years to complete, although this can vary depending on the student’s research progress and the requirements of their specific program.

Research Focus and Dissertation

The primary focus of a DSc program is on conducting original research that contributes to the advancement of scientific knowledge. Students are expected to undertake a significant research project and produce a dissertation that demonstrates their expertise in their chosen field.

The dissertation for a DSc program is typically more focused and specialized compared to a PhD dissertation. It may involve cutting-edge research, innovative methodologies, and the development of new theories or technologies.

It is important to note that the specific requirements for a DSc degree can vary between universities and disciplines. Some universities may require additional coursework or examinations in addition to the research component, while others may have specific requirements for publication or presentations at academic conferences.

Overview of the Doctor of Philosophy Degree

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is one of the highest academic achievements that individuals can pursue in their field of interest. It is a research-based degree that requires students to contribute original knowledge to their chosen field through an extensive dissertation.

The PhD degree is highly respected and is generally considered the standard qualification for pursuing a career in academia or research.

What is a PhD?

A PhD is an advanced degree that allows students to specialize in a specific area of study and conduct original research. It requires a significant amount of independent work and self-motivation. During their PhD journey, students are expected to develop critical thinking skills, conduct in-depth research, and contribute new knowledge to their field.

The degree is awarded based on the completion and successful defense of a dissertation, which is a lengthy and comprehensive research project.

PhD programs are typically full-time, although some universities offer part-time options for working professionals. The duration of a PhD program can vary depending on the field of study and the individual’s progress.

On average, it takes about 4 to 6 years to complete a PhD, but it can take longer for some students. The program usually consists of coursework, comprehensive exams, and the completion of a dissertation.

The main focus of a PhD program is the dissertation, which is a substantial piece of original research that contributes to the existing knowledge in the field. The topic of the dissertation is chosen by the student and is usually based on their research interests.

The dissertation requires students to demonstrate their ability to conduct independent research, critically analyze data, and present their findings in a clear and coherent manner. It is often a lengthy and time-consuming process, but it is also a valuable opportunity for students to make a significant contribution to their field.

Key Differences Between DSc and PhD Degrees

Prestige and perception.

When it comes to prestige and perception, both the Doctor of Science (DSc) and PhD degrees are highly respected and regarded in the academic community. However, there are some key differences in how these degrees are perceived in certain fields or regions.

The DSc degree is often associated with scientific and technical disciplines, such as engineering, computer science, and natural sciences. It is typically seen as a higher level of achievement and expertise in these fields.

On the other hand, the PhD degree is more commonly associated with humanities, social sciences, and some scientific disciplines. It is widely recognized as a research-based degree that demonstrates a deep understanding of a specific subject.

It is important to note that the perception of these degrees may vary across different countries and institutions. In some regions, the DSc degree may be more prevalent and preferred, while in others, the PhD degree may hold more weight.

Program Structure

The structure of DSc and PhD programs can vary depending on the institution and field of study. In general, both degrees require a significant amount of research and a dissertation or thesis as a culmination of the program.

PhD programs typically have a more structured curriculum, with required coursework and examinations in addition to the research component. These programs aim to provide students with a broad foundation in their field and develop their research skills.

On the other hand, DSc programs often focus more on the research aspect and may have fewer coursework requirements. These programs are designed for individuals who have already acquired a substantial amount of knowledge and experience in their field and wish to further their research expertise.

Research Focus and Application

The research focus and application of DSc and PhD degrees can also differ based on the field of study.

In DSc programs, the emphasis is often on applied research and the development of practical solutions to real-world problems. This degree is commonly pursued by professionals who are already working in industry or applied research settings and want to advance their knowledge and expertise in their specific field.

PhD programs, on the other hand, tend to have a more theoretical and academic focus. The research conducted in these programs often contributes to the broader knowledge and understanding of a particular subject.

PhD graduates typically pursue careers in academia, research institutions, or other scholarly settings.

Career Paths

Career paths for DSc and PhD graduates can vary depending on the field, industry, and individual goals.

Individuals with a DSc degree often find opportunities in industry, government agencies, and applied research settings. They may work as senior researchers, consultants, or experts in their field. The DSc degree is highly valued for its practical applications and the ability to solve complex problems.

PhD graduates, on the other hand, often pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers. They may also work in research and development roles in industry or government organizations. The PhD degree is highly regarded for its research and analytical skills, as well as the ability to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in a particular field.

In short, while both the DSc and PhD are advanced research degrees, there are some notable differences when it comes to prestige, flexibility, research focus, and career outcomes. Those wanting a more structured path that leads to academic research and teaching roles may find the PhD a better fit.

For individuals seeking a degree to support applied research and expert-level clinical practice, the DSc may be more aligned. Weighing your own research interests, career aspirations, and academic capabilities can help determine which of these prestigious doctoral degrees is right for you.

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Why is it called a Doctor of Philosophy?

A doctor of philosophy is a higher level of graduation given in various subjects by universities. Universities give doctors of philosophy honor to a fellow for providing knowledge in their respected field. 

Since long the PhD degree has been awarded in various subjects. In the present article, we will try to make you understand why the degree is known as a doctor of philosophy, but before that let’s understand some basic things regarding the degree. 

What is PhD- doctor of philosophy?

PhD- doctor of philosophy is the esteem for a person or student in their academic career. Europe and the middle east people had started awarding the degree to their students during ancient times. 

The word was originally derived from a Greek word that we will discuss later. Because the answer is there in the meaning. 

The uppermost level of achievement is hard to get, a person has to face many difficulties to achieve it. Nowadays universities hold common entrance exams for students to get admission in PhD in order to maintain the importance of the degree.

However, a person with a master degree and master of philosophy can also apply directly for it. Still, the entrance process is too complicated for admission. 

Let me discuss it for you…

First, you have to clear an entrance exam conducted by the university or you have to prepare a proposal or research proposal focusing on a specific problem. 

Even though one has completed the entrance example, a research proposal is required. The university review committee makes a decision based on your research proposal. 

You only get admission in PhD when some expert professor will be interested in your research proposal. But the story still does not end here, your masters grade, your research background and publications also taken into account for admission. 

A typical PhD degree will take at least 3 years to complete. Although it can take more time to complete. Sometimes it takes 5 to 8 years, It depends on your research. 

Cost is yet another big factor in PhD, with fees and other costs, one has to invest $30,000 to $50,000 to $100,000 during PhD. Most universities provide financial freedom as well as financial assistance for students so don’t worry about the cost. 

Part-time jobs, fellowship, scholarship and project funds are various options to survive financially during PhD. 

The time and cost of the PhD-doctorate of philosophy depends on the choice of your subject and stream you select. 

For example, a science student has to invest more time and money in comparison to art students. And it’s a fact because a science student has to do extreme wet and dry lab work. 

Their lab utilities, chemicals and assays are costlier. If we want to learn more on cost and duration on PhD, read this article:  Cost and Duration of PhD in India

Now coming to our question, 

Why is it called a doctor of philosophy? 

There is a philosophical reason behind it. The word philosophy was derived from the Greek word “philosophia” which means “love of wisdom” . A person having a PhD degree is wiser than others having experience, knowledge and decision making skills. 

It is a tougher and topmost achievement that is why labeled with a doctor, the meaning of doctor is otherwise a physician or medical practitioner. 

It is called a doctor of philosophy due to the outstanding wisdom and sense of an achiever, to solve real-world problems with his or her best knowledge. And by doing it he or she solves the problem as well as provides knowledge in their related field. 

All this is possible because of their love of wisdom- doctor of philosophy. 

Notably, no authorities or universities still officially explained the meaning of ‘doctor of philosophy’.

In some other branches it is known with other names as well, like, DSc- doctor of science, EdD-doctor of education etc. However, all are similar to PhD. 

During Doctor of philosophy: 

Once you are enrolled in a PhD or doctor of philosophy, you have to complete three major criteria in your entire tenures: writing a thesis , publishing a research paper and completing viva. 

PhD is all about reading, researching and writing. Researching means we are descoring something new or providing some new information in previously existing knowledge. 

So we need to learn and read previous work related to our topic in order to understand our work and research. 

A thesis is a written draft or assay of our doctor of philosophy work. And hence it must be precise. Your PhD thesis reflects how accurately you have done your research. That is why it is very important to write a thesis in a proper manner. We have covered an amazing article on how to write a PhD thesis. You can read it here: 16 tips to write a thesis for a PhD . 

To make your research foundation more stronger, you have to publish your work in some peer reviewed well known journals. Universities strongly recommend at least one publication of PhD. 

If you want to learn more about how to write a research paper, read this article: Writing a research paper for PhD dissertation . 

The last criterion is the PhD viva. An external reviewer reviews your thesis and conducts a viva session. The session is in general only related to your PhD work. It is a kind of conversation in which you have to defend your work with arguments. 

Interestingly, some universities don’t conduct viva. A PhD thesis is considered as a criteria to award the degree. 

Course work is now mandatory in different universities across the world to enroll in PhD, usually, the first year of PhD is considered as a course work that must be cleared by a PhD student. 

The PhD degree is also known as a terminal degree because it is the last stage of the education system. Also, a doctor of philosophy is licensed to teach, so academics and teaching are their common job options. 

As they are commonly labeled as “professors” their responsibilities are not only teaching but also research. A PhD person can teach and at the same time conduct research projects and make their profile stronger. 

They can involve students in their research projects and can develop students’ interest in research, by doing so, they are making the future of the scientific and research community more stronger. 

That is the reason the role of a PhD person is very crucial. All these he or she can do only because of the love of wisdom they had developed during their PhD. 

Nonetheless, not only academics there are some higher levels of opening available for doctors of philosophy in research organisations, but also. 

Now what about the earning or salary? 

Usually, a PhD person can earn more than a school or graduation level teacher. They can earn between 50,000 to 2,00,000INR per month but still the potential of earning depends on how smarter a person is!

Conclusion: 

Their love of wisdom is the reason a person is called a doctor of philosophy or doctorate. Doctor or doctorate is a different topic to discuss, however. if you want to learn about it, read this article: doctorate vs doctor of philosophy . 

We know love for something makes us great and the same is true for study too. Students left their study due to lack of interest or to get a job. But trust me, if you are really interested in your subject go for a PhD. I bet you after completing your doctor of philosophy degree you will be a different person. 

Your sense of observing things becomes sharper and distinct from others. One more advantage you get from a PhD is honor and respect. You are called a doctor and people see you with respect. They think 100 times before arguing with you because you are a PhD- doctor of philosophy, no one can beat you in arguments. 

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About The Author

Dr Tushar Chauhan

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What is a PhD?

• Types of Doctorates
• A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest globally recognized postgraduate degree that higher education institutions can award.
• PhDs are awarded to candidates who undertake original and extensive research in a particular field of study.
• Full time PhD programmes typically last three to four years, whilst part time PhD programmes typically last six to seven years.
• A PhD can lead to an academia teaching role or a career in research. A PhD can also equip you with skills suitable for a wide range of jobs unrelated to your research topic or academia.

Definition of a PhD – A Doctor of Philosophy (commonly abbreviated to PhD , Ph.D or a DPhil ) is a university research degree awarded from across a broad range of academic disciplines; in most countries, it is a terminal degree, i.e. the highest academic degree possible.

PhDs differ from undergraduate and master’s degrees in that PhDs are entirely research-based rather than involving taught modules (although doctoral training centres (DTCs) offer programmes that start with a year of lecture-based teaching to help develop your research skills prior to starting your project).

In most English-speaking countries, those that complete a PhD use the title “Doctor” (typically abbreviated to Dr) in front of their names and are referred to as such within academic and/or research settings. Those that work in fields outside of academia may decide not to use the formal doctor title but use post-nominal letters (e.g. John Smith PhD); it’s unusual though for someone to use both the Doctor title and post-nominal letters in their name.

PhD vs Doctorate

A PhD and a professional doctorate are both research-based terminal degrees.

However, where a PhD focuses on original research mostly around theoretical concepts, a professional doctorate focuses on examining existing knowledge to solve real-life, practical problems.

While there is much crossover between the two, a PhD is generally better suited for an individual to wants to advance the knowledge and understanding in their field, and a professional doctorate degree is better suited to a working professional who wants to better be able to apply knowledge and understanding to their field.

What Are the Entry Requirements for a PhD?

To be accepted on to a PhD programme, students usually need to hold at least a high ( 2:1 and above ) undergraduate degree that is related to the field of research that they want to pursue. A PhD candidate may also be expected to hold a Master’s degree , however, this does not mean you must have one, as it is still possible to enrol into a PhD without a Master’s .

Self-funded courses may sometimes be more relaxed in relation to entry requirements . It may be possible to be accepted onto a self-funded PhD programme with lower grades, though these students typically demonstrate their suitability for the role through professional work experience.

Whilst a distance learning project is possible , most PhD candidates will carry out their research over at least three years based at their university, with regular contact with two academic supervisors (primary and secondary). This is particularly the case for lab-based projects, however, some PhD projects require spending time on-site away from university (e.g. at a specialist research lab or at a collaborating institution abroad).

How Long Does a PhD Take?

Typically, full-time PhDs last 3-4 years and part-time PhDs last 6-7 years. However, at the discretion of the university, the thesis writing-up period can be extended by up to four years.

Although most doctoral programmes start in September or October, they are generally much more flexible than taught-courses and can start at any time of the year.

How Much Does a PhD Cost?

Tuition fees for UK and EU students vary between £3,000 and £6,000 per year, with the average tuition fee of £4,712 per year for 2023/24 programmes.

Tuition fees increase considerably for international students, varying between £16,000 to £25,000 per year, with an average tuition fee of £19,600 per year .

Nonetheless, most students will secure PhD funding in the form of studentships, scholarships and bursaries to help pay for these fees. These funding opportunities can either be partial, which cover tuition fees only, or full, which cover both tuition fees and living expenses.

UK national students can also apply for Doctoral Loans from Student Finance England if they are unable to secure funding.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

What Does a PhD Involve?

To be awarded a PhD, a doctoral student is required to produce a substantial body of work that adds new knowledge to their chosen field.

A PhD programme will typically involve four key stages:

Stage 1: Literature Review

The first year of a PhD involves attending regular meetings with your supervisors and carrying out a search on previously published work in your subject area. This search will be used to produce a literature review which should set the context of the project by explaining the foundation of what is currently known within the field of research, what recent developments have occurred, and where the gaps in knowledge are. In most cases, this will be an extension of your research proposal should you have produced one as part of your application. The literature review should conclude by outlining the overarching aims and objectives of the research project. This stage of setting achievable goals which are original and contribute to the field of research is an essential first step in a successful PhD.

The supervisor is the main point of contact through the duration of a PhD – but remember: they are there to mentor, not to teach, or do it for you . It will be your responsibility to plan, execute and monitor your own work as well as to identify gaps in your own knowledge and address them.

Stage 2: Research

The second year (and prehapse some of your third year) is when you work on your research. Having identified novel research questions from your review of the literature, this is where you collect your data to help answer these questions. How you do this will depend on the nature of your doctoral research: for example, you may design and run experiments in a lab alongside other PhD students or visit excavation sites in remote regions of the world. You should check in regularly with your supervisors to update them and run any ideas or issues past them.

Have the structure and chapters of your thesis in mind as you develop and tackle your research questions. Working with a view of publishing your work will be very valuable later on.

Stage 3: Write up of Thesis

The next key stage of a PhD is writing a doctoral thesis , which typically takes from anywhere between three months to one year. A thesis is a substantial body of work that describes the work and outcomes of the research over the previous two to three years. It should tell a detailed story of the PhD project – focusing on:

• The motivations for the research questions identified from the literature review.
• The methodologies used, results obtained, and a comprehensive analysis and discussion of the findings.
• A detailed discussion of the key findings with an emphasis on the original contributions made to your field of research and how this has been impactful.

There is no universal rule for the length of a PhD thesis, but general guidelines set the word count between 80,000 to 100,000 words.

For your thesis to be successful, it needs to adequately defend your argument and provide a unique or increased insight into your field that was not previously available.

Stage 4: Attending the Viva

A viva voce , most commonly referred to as just a ‘ viva ‘, is an interview-style examination where the PhD student is required to engage in a critical appraisal of their work and defend their thesis against at least two examiners. The examiners will ask questions to check the PhD student has an in-depth understanding of the ideas and theories proposed in their thesis, and whether they have developed the research skills that would be expected of them.

The viva is one of the final steps in achieving a PhD, and typically lasts at least two hours, but this duration can vary depending on the examiners, the university and the PhD project itself.

Once you have done the viva – you’re on the home stretch. You will typically be asked to make some amendments to your thesis based on the examiner’s feedback. You are then ready to submit your final thesis for either:

• PhD – If you pass the requirements you will be awarded a PhD degree (most common outcome),
• MPhil – If you failed to meet requirements for a PhD, you may be downgraded to an MPhil degree (uncommon outcome),
• Fail – No award is given, typically for cases of plagiarism (extremely uncommon outcome).

What Is It Like to Undertake a PhD?

We’re often asked what it is like to undertake a PhD study. Unfortunately, this isn’t a simple answer to this question as every research project is different.

To help give insight into the life of a PhD student, we’ve interviewed PhD students at various stages of their programmes and put together a series of PhD Student Interviews . Check out the link to find out what a PhD is like and what advice they have to offer you.

What Are the Benefits of A PhD?

A PhD is the highest globally recognised postgraduate degree that higher education institutions can award. The degree, which is awarded to candidates who demonstrate original and independent research in a particular field of study, is not only invaluable in itself, but sets you up with invaluable skills and traits.

Career Opportunities

First, a PhD prepares you for a career in academia if you wish to continue in this area. This takes form as a career in the Higher Education sector, typically as a lecturer working their way to becoming a professor leading research on the subject you’ve studied and trained in.

Second, a PhD also enables the opportunity for landing a job in a research & development role outside of the academic environment. Examples of this include laboratory work for a private or third sector company, a governmental role and research for commercial and industrial applications.

Transferable Skills

Finally, in possessing a PhD degree, you can show to employers that you have vital skills that make you an asset to any company. Three examples of the transferable skills that you gain through a PhD are effective communication, time management, and report writing.

• Communication – presenting your work in written and oral forms using journal papers and podium presentations, shows your ability to share complex ideas effectively and to those with less background knowledge than you. Communication is key in the professional environment, regardless of the job.
• Time management – The ability to prioritise and organise tasks is a tremendous asset in the professional industry. A PhD holder can use their qualification to demonstrate that they are able to manage their time, arrange and follow a plan, and stick to deadlines.
• Report writing – Condensing three years of work into a thesis demonstrates your ability to filter through massive amounts of information, identify the key points, and get these points across to the reader. The ability to ‘cut out the waffle’ or ‘get to the point’ is a huge asset in the professional industry.

Aside from the above, you also get to refer to yourself as a Doctor and add fancy initials after your name!

What Can I Do After a PhD?

One of the most desirable postdoctoral fields is working within independent Research and Development (R&D) labs and new emerging companies. Both industries, especially R&D labs, have dedicated groups of PhD graduates who lead research activities, design new products and take part in crucial strategic meetings. Not only is this a stimulating line of work, but the average salaries in R&D labs and emerging start-ups are lucrative. In comparison, an undergraduate with five years of experience within their given field will, on average, likely earn less than a new PhD graduate taking on a R&D position.

It’s a common misunderstanding that PhDs only opens the door for an academic career such as university lecturers and training providers. Although obtaining a PhD opens these doors, the opportunities extend far beyond educational roles. In fact, recent data from the UK’s Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) indicates only 23% of PhD graduates take a position in educational roles . This low percentage is primarily because PhD graduates have a wide range of skills that make them suitable for a broad spectrum of roles. This is being seen first hand by the increasing number of PhD graduates who are entering alternative roles such as research, writing, law and investment banking.

How Do I Find a PhD?

We appreciate that finding a PhD programme to undertake can be a relatively daunting process. According to Higher Education Student Statistics , over 22,000 PhDs were awarded in 2016/17 within the United Kingdom alone. Clearly there are a huge number of PhD programmes available. This can sometimes be confusing for prospective doctorates, particularly when different programmes are advertised in different places. Often, it is difficult to know where to look or where to even start. We’ve put together a list of useful sources to find the latest PhD programmes:

• A great place to start is with our comprehensive and up-to-date database of available PhD positions .
• Assuming you are still at university, speak to an existing PhD supervisor within your department.
• Attend as many postgraduate open days as you can. Whilst there, speak to current PhD students and career advisors to get an awareness of what PhDs are on offer.
• Visit the postgraduate section of university websites and the PhD Research Council section of the UKRI website.

Browse PhDs Now

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• Doctor of Philosophy

Doctor of Philosophy , abbreviated as PhD is an academic degree traditionally awarded by universities .

This is a project space to develop an equivalent that we're calling the Open and Networked PhD (ONPhD).

Work to date has made it as far as articulating an equivalence to the formal PhD stage called Candidature. Other stages to the ONPhD are yet to be developed.

Requirements

A traditional PhD requires acceptance from a University to become a PhD Candidate. There is usually a variety of processes that candidate can follow toward publishing a thesis, or similar. See a relevant University's website for their requirements.

An ONPhD does not require affiliation to a university, but does require the publication of a thesis or similar, that is assessed by peers to equivalent criteria. To date an ONPhD is not recognised as a PhD, but we do hope to establish a process where it can be shown to be equivalent to, if not an improvement on, the traditional PhD criteria and assessment.

As in a traditional PhD, an ONPhD will require:

Candidature

Literature review.

• Coursework or documeted learning

Publication and review

Follow the steps below to establish your candidature for ONPhD. We have developed a set of digital badges for each of these steps. See the course on P2PU , and the manual for earning the badges .

• Describe your learning history - This is a cumulative description of all the works (formal and informal) you have completed to be considered toward your candidacy for an ONPhD
• Identify your domain of study - The described domain of study should be both broad and focused. This is to allow others to get a sense of both the knowledge domain and your focus.
• Detail your contribution - What of considerable significance are you going to contribute to your chosen subject domain of knowledge?
• Methodology - Completion of a PhD requires a significant reseach project or major contribution to your chosen knowledge domain.
• Skills and Knowledge Development - Completion of a PhD level of knowing also requires the development of other related skills and knowledge.
• Engage the community - How are you going to engage the learning community and your learning network
• Seek supervision and endorsements - Identify the people in your learning network who are going to supervise or guide your research and assist your publication.

INCOMPLETE - Work has not commenced around the ONPhD equivalent to the literature review. Below is a suggested list of steps and we propose that those steps be developed in a similar fashion to the Candidature stage.

• Demonstrate thorough knowledge of a wide range of literature relating to your topic.
• Engage in critical appraisal of these works.
• Arrive at a question or "gap" in the literature, that you will structure your thesis around.
• Understand where your investigation sits in relation to the literature you have reviewed.
• Begin to position your thesis in terms of world view (philosophical framework), the types of methods you will use to investigate and test your ideas (methodical framework), and the way you will operate those methods (operational framework – including the definition of what is data and how it is appraised/analysed).

Forming a research proposal

Drawing from D.R. Rowland's Annotated Sample Research Proposal: Process and Product for the University of Queensland, in which 3 stages are detailed:

Preliminary sorting of ideas

Use a mind map ...

Outline in Terms of Focus Questions

Addresses the significance of the research

• What have been the drivers of the calculus reform movement at the tertiary level?
• What are the motivations for introducing modeling as part of this reform?
• Why do reform approaches need a sound research base in general, and why in particular does using modeling as a reform approach need a sound research base?
• What then is the broad aim of the proposed research?

Addresses questions about originality + uses previous research as a foundation for further research

• What research has already been done in this area? What deficiencies or gaps need addressing?
• What other research in related areas has been done that could inform research on the proposed problem?

What theories about learning guided the directions taken by the research and in particular, the hypotheses to be tested?

• What assumptions about student learning framed this research?
• What theories about student learning were believed to be of potential use and what hypotheses came out of these theories?
• What methodological issues needed to be addressed by this research?
• How were the hypotheses tested? Why use multiple methods?
• How was the sample chosen and does this choice pose a threat to external validity?
• How were the findings validated?
• What ethical issues are raised by the proposed approaches and how will these be addressed?

Write the proposal! (And revise the organizational framework)

Argument mapping

See D.R. Rowland's Annotated Sample Research Proposal: Process and Product for an annotated example proposal.

Coursework and learning

INCOMPLETE - Work has not commenced around the ONPhD equivalent to the development of courses to support people in their projects. We propose that relevant courses be developed across Wikiversity and listed here.

• Sport research
• Open educational resources
• Social media
• Other suggestions
• Your course here

INCOMPLETE - The work included here has been gathered from available content on Wikiversity that is deemed relevant. Further work to customise this to ONPhD has not yet taken place. We suggest that this section be developed into steps as with previous sections, to guide a candidate through all necessary considerations about developing and conducting a research plan.

All research is pivotal on methods – which requires sound alignment between:

(philosophical framework)

• w:Epistemology

(methodical framework)

• w:Qualitative research and Qualitative research
• w:Quantitative research
• w:Mixed methods research

(operational framework – including the definition of what is data and how it is appraised/analysed).

• What is research ?
• Research design
• Finding research
• Critiquing the literature
• Validity and reliability of data
• Data analysis and visualisation
• Getting published
• Grant applications
• Presenting your work

Steps are needed for guiding a candidates consideration of the ethics of research, and how to obtain an equivalent to ethical clearance of research that is normally offered by a research university.

INCOMPLETE - We suggest that this section be developed as a list of optional courses, that guide people in the publication of their research findings.

• The Directory of Open Access Journals
• Thesis structure - By Dr Mary Walsh

Communications and support

To stay in contact with others who are openly documenting and networking their PhD work, please consider the following:

• The email forum on GoogleGroups: Open and networked PhDs
• tag onphd = Twitter , G+
• tag openphd
• The participant's list here on Wikiversity:PhD

Assessment Criteria for ONPhD

INCOMPLETE - We suggest that this section be developed as a list of steps and courses, that guide people in the assessment of particular approaches to ONPhDs. The steps are universal and the courses are for unique assessment needs. We propose the following steps be universal:

• Original research
• Thesis is situated within a linage of philosophy, theory and/or research
• Data openly accessible online
• Thesis is developed and published iteratively (by publication)
• Continuous or iterative peer to peer review that is openly documented
• Manuscript or similar is freely accessible online

Examples of PhDs and candidates using Wikiversity

• User:Jtneill/PhD - completed
• User:Cormaggio/Thesis - completed
• User:Leighblackall/PhD - in progress
• User:Peterrawsthorne/PhD - in progress
• User:SarahStewart/EdD - in progress
• User:Steelemaley/PhD - in progress
• User:Alexanderhayes/PhD - in progress
• User:Yvessimon1/PhD - in progress
• Collaborative research on Wikiversity
• Networked learning
• Qualitative research

• Leighblackall/PhD

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career-advice.jobs.ac.uk

What is a PhD and Why Should YOU do one?

In the UK, a PhD stands for ‘Doctor of Philosophy’, sometimes referred to as a ‘doctorate’. It is the highest level of degree that a student can achieve. At some institutions, including Oxford University, a Doctor of Philosophy is known as a DPhil. It is distinct from professional doctorates such as an Engineering Doctorate (EngD).

Entry requirements

An undergraduate degree is a minimum requirement and many will also require a master’s degree (such as an MA, MSc or MRes). Some scholarships will be on a 1+3 basis, which is one year of a master’s plus three years of PhD funding.

How to apply for a PhD

Prospective students are usually expected to submit a research proposal to the department they wish to undertake their study in. Some departments will encourage students to discuss their ideas with an academic working in that field first. The proposal will outline what they intend their research to investigate, how it relates to other research in their field and what methods they intend to use to carry out their research. Some PhD’s however, particularly in the sciences, are advertised as studentships where the research aims are more prescriptive.

How long is the course?

A PhD usually lasts three years (four for a New Route PhD – see below), or rather, any available funding usually lasts for that time. Students may be able to take extra time in order to complete their thesis but this will usually be at their own expense. For part-time, self-funded students, it can take up to seven years.

What’s involved

A PhD usually culminates in a dissertation of around 80,000-100,000 words , based on research carried out over the course of their study. The research must be original and aim to create new knowledge or theories in their specialist area, or build on existing knowledge or theories. Many departments initially accept students on an MPhil basis and then upgrade them to PhD status after the first year or two, subject to satisfactory progress. Students who are not considered to be doing work appropriate for the level can instead submit a shorter thesis and gain an MPhil.

There is little taught element, students are expected to work independently, supported by their department and a supervisor. There may be seminars to attend and/or lab work to complete, depending on the subject. During their study, students will try and get academic papers published and present their work at conferences, which will allow them to get feedback on their ideas for their dissertation.

New Route PhD

Introduced in 2001, the New Route PhD is a four-year programme that combines taught elements, including professional and transferable skills, with the student’s research. There are now hundreds of doctoral students studying a variety of subjects at a consortium of universities across the UK.

Career prospects for PhD Students

PhD graduates who go on to work in academia usually start off by undertaking postdoctoral research and then a fellowship or lectureship. Other career options will depend on what the PhD was in – commercial research is an option for some, and many are able to use their specialist knowledge and research skills in areas of business and finance.   

For a real insight into what it’s like to study at PhD level, see our vlog series ,  where we have invited students at various stages of their PhD and locations to film themselves over a month and share their videos with you.

Why do a PhD?

If you are considering doing one make sure that you do it with a purpose. Do one because you want to and know why you want to do it and have a clear idea of what  it could lead to .  How is doing a PhD going to help you achieve what you want to in your future?

Reasons to do a PhD.

• It’ll be good for your career. No one expects you to have your whole career plan mapped out when you start a PhD, but having some ideas of where you want to get to can be useful. Be aware though that you may not get the career benefits of a PhD straight away.
• You want to be an expert in a particular area of your subject. If you complete a PhD you will be. No-one, not your supervisor, not your external examiner at the end of your PhD, no-one, will know more about the subject you researched than you do.
• You want to achieve something. You want to work hard and demonstrate a passion for your subject and show how much time and effort you put in and how motivated you are.
• Showing your ability to motivate yourself is one of many skills you’ll be able to demonstrate to employers after doing a PhD, which is  handy for entering a competitive job market .

Reasons not to do a PhD.

• Don’t do it just because your degree research project supervisor asked you if you wanted to do one with them. If you wanted to do one and it’s in an area that interests you then great, go for it. If you hadn’t thought about doing one before they asked, and you’re not sure why you want to do one, make sure you work that out before saying yes to them.
• Don’t do it because you don’t know what else to do. Many people do a PhD because they don’t know what else to do and think it will give them time to work that out. Doing a PhD is a huge commitment, at least 3-4 years of your life, and hard work, so before you take one on, make sure you understand why.
• And do it because YOU want to, not because your family, or others expect it of you, or because your family or friends are doing one, or have done one. Make it your decision, not someone else’s.

Why Should YOU Do A PhD?

It is your decision to commit to a significant period of time and work and it needs to be something you approach positively and with enthusiasm but also with realism about the pros and cons of undertaking original research.

Who does a PhD?

The idea of the “perpetual student”, i.e. someone who stays on after an undergraduate and/or masters degree, to do a PhD, is perhaps a traditional view of PhDs. Some of you reading this will fall into the category of those who work through the tiers of higher education in this sequential fashion (it does not necessarily make you a “perpetual student” though!). The PhD population today is very diverse and not made up entirely of 21 to 25-year-olds who have stayed in educational settings for the majority of their lives. Others may be considering a return to education in order to change your career or as part of your professional development within an existing career. Some of you may be considering coming to study in the UK independently or with support from an organisation in your home country. Whatever your situation it is very important that you take time to recognise and understand why you are making this commitment and what it entails.

Let us move to the positives of why YOU should do a Ph.D. Broadly, the positive reasons can be classified into:

You WANT to or You NEED to

Some academic colleagues were asked to give reasons why someone should do a PhD and all came back with statements that had the word “passion” in them. This is having a real passion for your subject and an area of it that you want to investigate further. My colleagues also offered some interesting comments on the reality of making a decision to do a PhD even when you have this passion. Some commented on the need to consider doing the right PhD for you and not just any PhD, and I think it is important that you take this seriously as it can be dangerous to compromise too far and embark on research that you are not interested in just because it will lead to a PhD.

Academic colleagues also wanted you to look ahead and consider where your PhD may take you. Do you want to continue in an academic career or apply for jobs in industry or other organisations where a PhD is a requirement or will help you to work at a different level? Interestingly, research on the career intentions of students, undertaken by Vitae revealed that less than one-third had firm career ideas even in the latter stages of their Ph.D. This statistic is concerning as it may mean that PhD students miss opportunities to add to their range of experience. You don’t need to have an exact career plan in place at the start of your Ph.D., but doing research on where it may take you is valuable. For those already in a career and undertaking a PhD as part of their professional development, or those who are viewing a PhD as part of a career change into academia, they should also look ahead and ensure that plans for the future are realistic and achievable.

A decision to undertake a PhD involves the same steps as any other career decision, you need to find out as much as possible about what a Ph.D. really involves. Alongside considering where your passions lie and where they might lead to, you need to research such things as:

• The working environment and how you will adapt to any differences with your current situation
• Working with a supervisor
• What funding is available and what it covers, i.e. fees only or fees and living costs?
• Most importantly what behaviours, skills and experiences YOU have that will make you a successful and productive researcher

These points and others are covered in more detail in 7 Ph.D Application Tips .

Find your PhD here

For further PhD tips see:

What Can You Do With a PhD?

What did you think of our article? - please rate

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Reader Interactions

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20th August 2020 at 12:31 am

Excellent article. I am know more motivate to get a scholorship for my PHD program. I have to enhance my all effort because it’s not easy to get a fully funded, require more effort and time taken.

10th March 2022 at 9:58 am

Good morning,

Hope are well? I am thinking of gong for PHD. In any UK universities. Hope to hear from you soonest.

10th March 2022 at 1:08 pm

Cool, thanks for your advice. It’s an inspiration to let my “passion” be abroad. Best for you.

9th November 2022 at 8:33 pm

This article is timely and so educative. I’m now better informed on how to make a decision on going for my PhD. Thanks a lot.

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Understanding the Doctor of Philosophy Degree – Faulkner University

Faulkner University

A Christian University

Introduction

What is a doctor of philosophy understanding this degree.

Learning more in your chosen career field or area of interest can deepen your understanding of the subject, further your career, and provide additional benefits across your personal and professional life. A Doctor of Philosophy degree from Faulkner University, based in Montgomery, Alabama, is a particularly versatile field of study for students interested in producing original research and becoming recognized experts in their specialties. Here, we explore the Doctor of Philosophy degree, its benefits, and how the online doctoral degree programs at Faulkner University can help you complete your academic journey.

What Is a Doctor of Philosophy Degree?

A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is one of the highest possible degrees in academic studies and is available across a wide array of subjects, specialties, and academic fields. A Ph.D. represents that you’ve expanded the field of study in your particular area of specialization by completing original research and defending a dissertation in front of a panel of subject matter experts. Holders of a doctorate may be referred to as “Doctor” or add the letters “Ph.D.” or “DPhil” after their names. Different countries and even different universities have different requirements and degrees of rigor for earning a Ph.D., but they universally indicate a degree of professional expertise that can further one’s career in business, research, academia, and more.

What Subjects Can You Get a Doctor of Philosophy in?

Students and professional experts can pursue a Ph.D. in almost any subject, ranging from hard sciences and mathematics to history and other humanities. The core requirement and value of a doctoral program is that you can produce original research and deepen the knowledge available about your specialization. Private universities, public universities, and online universities across the country offer robust, well-respected doctoral programs that you can apply to in order to pursue this terminal degree. At Faulkner University, we offer Ph.D. programs for the following areas of study:

• Doctor of Philosophy degree in the humanities
• Doctor of Philosophy degree in biblical studies
• Doctor of Philosophy in health sciences

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Doctor of Philosophy?

Students can complete their journey to earning a Ph.D. across widely varied and customized timelines. Ph.D. programs often take between three and five years to complete. Factors that determine the total time of completion include the difficulty of the program, research resources and access, whether the student is full-time or part-time, and the timeline for completing and defending a dissertation.

At Faulkner University, we’ve created Ph.D. programs built to streamline and accelerate the degree process without compromising the quality and rigor of the education we provide. Our humanities and biblical studies Ph.D. programs are designed to be completed within four or five years, and our Ph.D. in health sciences program can be completed in as little as 18 months with dedicated study and research.

What Can You Do with a Doctor of Philosophy?

Earning a Ph.D. allows you to pursue advanced academic careers, apply to highly specialized educational and research opportunities, and continue to produce original research in your chosen field of expertise. Common career tracks for professionals with a Ph.D. include:

• College professors
• Administrative positions in higher education organizations
• Leaders in government and corporate organizations

Our unique Ph.D. in health sciences program also equips graduates with the skills to provide in-depth insights into public health and healthcare challenges.

Benefits of Becoming a Doctor of Philosophy

Gaining a Ph.D. in your area of specialization is a rewarding journey. By the time you graduate, you’ll have deeply enriched your own understanding of your chosen subject, added to the world’s knowledge, and have the skills and knowledge to help others on their academic journeys. Some additional benefits of completing a Ph.D. program include:

Access to Opportunities

Many higher education, administrative, and research job opportunities require a high level of education, often outright requiring applicants to hold a doctoral degree.

Personal and Professional Accomplishment

Holding a Ph.D. conveys expertise and prestige, making you a valuable expert in academic and professional contexts.

Expanded Networking

Through your course of study, you have an opportunity to network with experts in your field of study, including your professors, mentor, other Ph.D. candidates, and more. The connections you build as you complete your studies and produce original research will be invaluable throughout your career. You can also join networking groups exclusive to Ph.D. holders, Faulkner University students, or published experts in your field.

Increased Research and Analytics Skills

Because Ph.D. programs are founded on the ideas of original research and creating, presenting, and defending a dissertation, you’ll learn deeper research and critical thinking skills compared to other degrees. These skills are transferrable across virtually any industry, job, or creative pursuit, no matter which area of study you specialize in.

Further Your Education with Faulkner University

At Faulkner University, based in Montgomery, Alabama, we have three online Doctor of Philosophy programs that our students can pursue entirely online and on their preferred timelines. Our flexible degree plans and approach to remote learning allow you to balance work, personal life, and academic goals more easily. Request more information about our doctoral programs or apply today  to further your education.

Related Posts

8 reasons to earn your doctor of philosophy online, doctor of philosophy in health science vs. clinical doctorate in the health sciences: understanding the differences.

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doctor of philosophy

Definition of doctor of philosophy

Word history.

1651, in the meaning defined above

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“Doctor of philosophy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/doctor%20of%20philosophy. Accessed 12 Nov. 2024.

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