What are the Common Types of PhD Degrees?

Important Facts About Some Types of Doctorate Degrees

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Ph.D. in Psychology

A Ph.D. in psychology is designed to build upon the knowledge gained in an undergraduate degree program. These programs can also prepare graduates to work in their field, as psychologists are required to have a doctoral degree for licensure. Students in these programs explore advanced psychology topics like neuroscience, cognition, and personality. Psychology Ph.D. candidates are generally required to complete several advanced courses and write an original doctoral dissertation, which must be defended orally. Most students also serve as teaching assistants for one or more semesters. Some of the courses that may be included in the curriculum of this degree are:

• Social psychology
• Mind, culture, and society
• Emotion regulation
• Foundations of cognition

Ph.D. in Art History

Students working towards a Ph.D. in art history generally choose a specific area in which to specialize. Although students' coursework is created around that concentration, students are also required to take certain general art history courses. Candidates complete an original thesis on a topic that is usually related to their area of concentration. Some of the courses that may be included in this degree's curriculum are:

• Native American landscapes
• Postmodernism and the visual arts
• Contemporary African art
• Ancient Near-Eastern art

List of Doctorate Degrees

Although the Ph.D. is probably the most well-known type of doctoral degree program, there are other post-graduate level programs students may choose to pursue. The field of study often determines the name or type of degree that is offered.

Doctor of Medicine (M.D.)

An M.D. degree is the most advanced degree that a medical student can earn and must be completed in order to practice medicine professionally. M.D. students generally choose an area of specialty.

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

The Ed.D. degree is the highest level of education available in the field of education. Professionals who hold an Ed.D. degree typically work in school administration as well as academic or research positions related to education.

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

The J.D. degree is the most advanced degree available to lawyers in the United States. A dissertation is generally not required in this degree program.