Doctoral degrees can be earned in many fields.
A doctoral degree--or a doctorate--is a post-graduate degree in a particular field or profession that is often the terminal, or final, degree a student can earn in that subject. Doctoral degrees typically take three to six years to earn, and colleges and universities may have different requirements for each degree. Many doctoral degrees are offered online now, and they can be earned in a variety of fields and professions.
Research doctorates
Perhaps the most common doctoral degrees are research doctorates, which are often earned in the educational field. Research doctorates include the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), and Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degrees. Just as the name suggests, these degrees are awarded to individuals who complete extensive academic research on a particular topic or subject, and often require the defense of a thesis or dissertation.
Professional doctorates
Professional doctoral degrees are awarded to individuals who pursue research and complete training in a particular profession, such as medicine or law. These degrees include the Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM), and the Juris Doctor (JD) for those in law. Other professional doctoral degrees are available in fields such as practical theology (DPT) and veterinary medicine (DVM).
Honorary doctorates
The third type of doctoral degree is the honorary doctorate, which a college or university bestows on an individual whom the institution wishes to honor for contributions to a particular field or profession or for philanthropic endeavors. Honorary doctorates are presented "honoris causa," which is Latin for "sake of the honor," and usually are given during a higher education institution's Commencement or other ceremony.
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